Manchester City delivered a statement performance at Portman Road, dismantling Ipswich Town in a commanding 6-0 victory that marks the largest Premier League win of the season. The emphatic triumph catapulted Pep Guardiola’s men back into the top four, restoring their top-flight credentials after a frustrating 2-2 draw against Brentford in their previous outing.
Phil Foden stole the spotlight, delivering a masterclass with two goals and an assist, orchestrating City’s dominant first half. His sublime control of Kevin De Bruyne’s pinpoint cross in the 28th minute set the tone as he calmly slotted home the opener. Three minutes later, Foden turned provider, laying it off for Mateo Kovacic to unleash a crisp finish from the edge of the area.
Foden struck again just before halftime, this time converting a low shot from another De Bruyne delivery that slipped under Ipswich goalkeeper Christian Walton.
City’s relentless drive continued after the break, with Jeremy Doku capitalizing on a deflected effort for the fourth goal. Erling Haaland, fresh off signing a new nine-and-a-half-year contract, pounced on a defensive blunder to smash home the fifth. James McAtee added the final flourish, a delicate looping header from Kovacic’s cross, sealing the comprehensive win.
The victory propels Manchester City to 38 points in fourth place, while Ipswich languish in the relegation zone with just 16 points.
Foden Fires City Back into Form
For much of this season, Manchester City seemed a shadow of the team that claimed last year’s Premier League crown, sitting well off the pace of leaders Liverpool. A woeful stretch in November and December, where they suffered six losses in nine games, effectively ended their title hopes.
However, signs of resurgence are evident. The thrashing of Ipswich marks City’s third win in four matches, during which they’ve netted 14 goals and conceded just three.
Phil Foden’s resurgence has been pivotal. His brace against Ipswich brings his tally to six goals in his last six games, reminiscent of the blistering form that earned him 17 goals and eight assists last season. His chemistry with De Bruyne, who provided both assists, was a key feature of this dynamic display.
Foden’s recent remarks downplaying City’s title hopes may need revisiting if performances of this caliber continue.
Delap Fails to Impress Against Former Club
Much of the pre-match hype centered around Ipswich forward Liam Delap, a former City prospect. Delap’s eight Premier League goals have been crucial in Ipswich’s relegation fight, but he was a non-factor against a resilient City defense reinforced by the return of Ruben Dias.
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Delap’s muted performance highlighted Ipswich’s uphill battle, as the struggling side failed to threaten. With a daunting trip to face league leaders Liverpool next, Kieran McKenna’s men face an even steeper challenge.