21 September 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Manchester City maintained their perfect start to the Premier League season with a dramatic 5-3 victory over Sunderland at the Etihad Stadium, despite a sensational hat-trick from Sunderland forward Brian Brobbey.
On the same day, Liverpool secured a narrow 1-0 win over Bournemouth on manager Andoni Iraola’s return to his former club. Alexander Isak scored the decisive goal as Liverpool moved up to sixth in the table.
Brobbey Hat-Trick Not Enough for Sunderland
Brobbey was the standout performer for Sunderland, scoring three times in a remarkable individual display.
The Dutch striker cancelled out Manchester City’s opener before scoring again to keep Sunderland level. He completed his hat-trick after the break, giving the visitors hope of taking something from the game.
However, City’s attacking quality ultimately proved decisive as Sunderland conceded five goals. Brobbey’s three goals made him the first Sunderland player to score a Premier League hat-trick since 2016.
City Survive Eight-Goal Thriller
Manchester City took the lead through Enzo Fernandez in the ninth minute, with his free-kick catching Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs at the near post.
Rayan Cherki restored City’s advantage in the 29th minute before Brobbey responded again.
City then moved ahead for a third time through Antoine Semenyo, who scored in the 43rd minute. Semenyo added another shortly after half-time to put the hosts in a stronger position.
Brobbey completed his hat-trick in the 59th minute, setting up a tense final period before Erling Haaland scored in the 81st minute to finally settle the contest.
Perfect Start Continues
The victory kept Manchester City’s league record perfect and moved them three points clear at the top of the Premier League after Arsenal suffered a 3-0 defeat against Brighton the previous day.
City have now made a strong start under manager Enzo Maresca, although the Sunderland game also exposed defensive weaknesses that the team will need to address.
Haaland Completes the Job
Haaland’s late goal provided the final blow to Sunderland’s hopes.
The goal also extended an unusual personal record for the Norwegian striker, who has now scored against every team he has faced in the Premier League.
Liverpool Win on Iraola’s Bournemouth Return
Liverpool had a much tighter afternoon, beating Bournemouth 1-0 at the Vitality Stadium.
The match carried extra significance because Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola was returning to Bournemouth, where he had previously led the Cherries and helped guide the club into European competition.
Iraola received a warm reception from the home supporters before his Liverpool side secured all three points.
Isak Provides the Difference
Liverpool’s decisive goal came from Alexander Isak in the second half.
The striker finished after good attacking work involving Cody Gakpo, scoring his fourth goal of the season and giving Liverpool a valuable away victory.
Bournemouth created opportunities, particularly early in the game, but Liverpool’s defence held firm to protect the lead.
Liverpool Move Up to Sixth
The victory lifted Liverpool to sixth place with nine points from five matches, while Bournemouth remained without a league victory under new manager Marco Rose.
Iraola’s return therefore ended with a significant result for Liverpool before the international break.
Two Very Different Wins
The two matches provided contrasting examples of Premier League football.
Manchester City produced an attacking spectacle but conceded three times despite maintaining their winning record. Liverpool, meanwhile, produced a far more controlled result, relying on one decisive goal and a disciplined defensive performance.
Both victories nevertheless strengthened their respective positions heading into the international break.
Premier League Picture
Manchester City’s victory also took advantage of Arsenal’s surprise loss at Brighton, opening a three-point gap at the top.
Liverpool’s win moved them closer to the teams competing around the European places, while Bournemouth’s continued winless run leaves them under pressure to find a breakthrough after the international break.