Maybe you were distracted by Neymar’s epic return to PSG or a huge early clash in the Bundesliga between RB Leipzig and Bayern Munich. Perhaps you were watching college football or taking a break after a long morning of Premier League. Whatever the reason, we wouldn’t blame you for thinking it unnecessary to tune in to Norwich City, a promoted side, hosting Manchester City, the reigning EPL champion.
The Canaries, however, were primed for the upset of the season, and Teemu Pukki and Co. showed the league they’re not to be taken lightly.
Pukki had a goal and an assist as Norwich blasted Manchester City 3-2 at Carrow Road on Saturday, proof the Canaries can turn their high-scoring success in the Championship last season to points in the Premier League.
But they got a lot of help from hapless Manchester City center back Nicolas Otamendi.
Norwich vs Man City Highlights
Norwich took a stunning lead in the 18th minute when Kenny McLean headed in off a corner kick.
NORWICH BELIEVE pic.twitter.com/bAQ5GP2R3u
— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) September 14, 2019
Just 10 minutes later, Todd Cantwell made it 2-0 as the Canaries smashed the Citizens on the break, with neither defending center back anywhere close to making a play.
UPSET ALERT pic.twitter.com/VmWq2EiDmj
— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) September 14, 2019
Sergio Agüero scored just before halftime to pull his side within 2-1 and most assumed Pep Guardiola’s side would come out roaring in the second half and complete the comeback.
A massive goal for Manchester City!
What a second half this will be. pic.twitter.com/incEUyo2sH— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) September 14, 2019
Otamendi, however, had other plans.
The Argentine defender paid no mind to Emiliano Buendía closing him down in his own box, casually giving the ball away with pathetic ease. Buendía then slipped the ball to Pukki, who expertly poked home his sixth goal of the Premier League season.
Absolute madness #NoPukkiNoParty pic.twitter.com/SUg80ovqNE
— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) September 14, 2019
With that gift, Norwich led 3-1 and was able to withstand a late goal from Manchester City newcomer Rodrigo. A 23-year-old who arrived from Atlético Madrid, Rodri smashed an effort from the edge of the 18 into the bottom corner in the 88th minute to give the visitors some hope, but the Canaries held on for the victory.
Liverpool now leads Manchester City by five points through just five games. Arsenal, Everton and West Ham could all pull even with Manchester City in second place with wins later in the weekend, though they’d have to win by 11-plus goals to make up the goal difference.
Scenes. https://t.co/StVvhoL0BA
— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) September 14, 2019
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