Manchester City 0-2 Tottenham Hotspur: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Ladbrokes’ post-match review of Manchester City 0-2 Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Saturday, 23 August 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

In a surprising turn of events, Tottenham Hotspur secured a 2-0 victory over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. The result ended Manchester City's impressive run of three consecutive wins, showcasing Tottenham's ability to capitalise on key moments. Brennan Johnson and João Palhinha scored for Tottenham, with Johnson's goal coming just a minute after receiving a yellow card, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the match. Despite Manchester City's dominance in possession and recent form, they were unable to find the back of the net, leaving them searching for answers after this unexpected defeat.

The game was marked by Tottenham's disciplined defensive performance and clinical finishing. Manchester City, despite their high possession and numerous corners, struggled to break down Tottenham's defence. The visitors' strategy paid off, with both goals coming at crucial times, including an injury-time goal from Palhinha just before halftime. This result not only boosts Tottenham's confidence but also raises questions about Manchester City's ability to convert possession into goals, especially against well-organised defences.

The statistics from the match reveal a stark contrast between possession and the final scoreline. Manchester City dominated the ball with 61% possession and had seven corners compared to Tottenham's two, yet they failed to score. This discrepancy highlights Tottenham's efficiency in front of goal and their ability to defend resolutely. The high number of yellow cards for Tottenham (four) compared to Manchester City's one suggests a more physical approach from the visitors, which may have contributed to their success in disrupting City's rhythm.

Despite Manchester City's superior possession and dribbling success rate (47% compared to Tottenham's 35%), they were unable to translate these advantages into goals. Tottenham's single assist and injury-time goal underscore their effectiveness in capitalising on limited opportunities. The statistics paint a picture of a game where Manchester City controlled the play but lacked the cutting edge, while Tottenham made the most of their chances, resulting in a surprising yet deserved victory.

The match's turning point came early in the second half when Tottenham's Brennan Johnson scored just a minute after receiving a yellow card. This goal not only put Tottenham in the lead but also shifted the momentum in their favour, forcing Manchester City to chase the game. Johnson's goal was confirmed after a VAR check, adding to the drama of the moment. The early goal in the second half proved to be a significant blow to Manchester City's hopes of a comeback.

João Palhinha's injury-time goal just before halftime further solidified Tottenham's control over the match. This goal, coming in the 45+2 minute, was a testament to Tottenham's ability to exploit moments of vulnerability in Manchester City's defence. The goal not only doubled Tottenham's lead but also demoralised Manchester City, making it an uphill battle for the remainder of the game. These key moments were pivotal in determining the outcome of the match, showcasing Tottenham's clinical finishing and tactical acumen.

Manchester City lined up in a 4-1-4-1 formation, with James Trafford in goal and a backline of Rico Lewis, John Stones, Rúben Dias, and Rayan Aït-Nouri. The midfield was anchored by Nico González, with Oscar Bobb, Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders, and Omar Marmoush providing support, and Erling Haaland leading the attack. Despite the strong lineup, Manchester City struggled to break down Tottenham's defence, with substitutions like Nathan Aké, Bernardo Silva, and Jeremy Doku failing to change the game's course.

The impact of the substitutions was minimal, with no significant improvement in Manchester City's attacking threat. Nico González's yellow card in the 71st minute added to the team's frustrations. The lineup and formation were expected, but the inability to convert possession into goals raises questions about the team's strategy and execution against well-organised defences like Tottenham's.

Tottenham Hotspur deployed a 4-3-3 formation, with Guglielmo Vicario in goal and a backline of Pedro Porro, Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, and Djed Spence. The midfield trio of Pape Matar Sarr, João Palhinha, and Rodrigo Bentancur provided a solid foundation, while Mohammed Kudus, Richarlison, and Brennan Johnson led the attack. The lineup was effective, with Palhinha and Johnson scoring crucial goals that secured the victory.

The substitutions of Dominic Solanke, Wilson Odobert, Lucas Bergvall, and Kevin Danso were made to maintain the team's momentum and defensive solidity. Johnson's goal just after receiving a yellow card and Palhinha's injury-time strike were standout moments that showcased the team's resilience and tactical discipline. The lineup and formation worked well, with key players stepping up when it mattered most.

João Palhinha is Ladbrokes’ Man of the Match, with his goal in injury time proving to be a decisive moment in the game. His contribution was crucial in securing Tottenham's victory, as his goal just before halftime doubled their lead and demoralised Manchester City. Despite not recording any assists or key passes, Palhinha's impact on the game was significant, highlighting his importance to the team's success.

Recent Premier League Matches:

• Loss: 0-2 vs Tottenham Hotspur (H)

• Win: 4-0 vs Wolverhampton Wanderers (A)

Recent Premier League Matches:

• Win: 2-0 vs Manchester City (A)

• Win: 3-0 vs Burnley (H)

Sitting in 5th place with 3 points, Manchester City will face Brighton & Hove Albion, who are in 13th place with 1 point, on August 31, 2025, at 13:00. This result may prompt Manchester City to reassess their attacking strategy and focus on converting possession into goals. They will need to be more clinical in front of goal to climb the league standings.

With 6 points, Tottenham Hotspur are in 2nd place and will take on AFC Bournemouth, who are in 8th place with 3 points, on August 30, 2025, at 14:00. This victory will boost their confidence as they aim to maintain their strong start to the season. Tottenham will look to continue their solid defensive performances and capitalise on scoring opportunities.

Game Week 2

• Crystal Palace V Nottingham Forrest

• Everton V Brighton

• Fulham V Manchester United

Ladbrokes brings you the most exciting betting promotions and the latest betting offers to enhance your experience.

For the best Premier League outright predictions, explore our Outright Betting guide.

Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.