Spurs Stun Manchester City at the Etihad as Johnson and Palhinha Seal Famous Win

Braking News update August 23, 2025

Spurs Stun Manchester City at the Etihad as Johnson and Palhinha Seal Famous Win

By Zamal Uddin

Tottenham Hotspur once again silenced the Etihad Stadium with a brilliant 2-0 Premier League victory over Manchester City on Saturday, August 23, 2025. Goals from Brennan Johnson and debutant João Palhinha handed Thomas Frank’s side three crucial points and a brief stay at the top of the league table.

This result highlighted Frank’s tactical approach and resilience, offering Spurs fans a glimpse of a new era that is as organized and strategic as the previous attacking system under Ange Postecoglou.

Spurs Clinical in Front of Goal

Manchester City dominated possession with nearly 60% of the ball but lacked sharpness in the final third. In contrast, Spurs were ruthless when opportunities arrived.

In the 35th minute, Mohammed Kudus outpaced Rúben Dias and set up Richarlison, whose quick pass found Brennan Johnson. The Welsh forward’s shot slipped past goalkeeper James Trafford to open the scoring. After a VAR review using semi-automatic offside technology, the goal stood, and Spurs led 1-0.
Just before halftime, City’s problems worsened. A poor pass from Trafford allowed Spurs to press high, and while Richarlison’s effort was blocked, João Palhinha calmly fired home to make it 2-0 on his debut.

City Struggle to Find Rhythm

Despite the introduction of Phil Foden, Rodri, and Jérémy Doku in the second half, City remained disjointed. Erling Haaland had a couple of half-chances, but Spurs’ defensive duo Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven held firm.

City’s injury setback also didn’t help — Rayan Aït-Nouri was forced off early and replaced by Nathan Aké, but even the treble-winner couldn’t prevent defensive lapses.

Pep Guardiola’s gamble to start James Trafford over the experienced Ederson backfired, as the young keeper’s distribution and hesitation contributed to both goals.

Spurs Shine Under Thomas Frank

New manager Thomas Frank has quickly stamped his authority on Spurs, organizing them into a disciplined unit that pressed effectively and punished City’s errors. Palhinha, in particular, was outstanding, controlling midfield and scoring on his debut.

Meanwhile, City’s wastefulness was summed up by Rayan Cherki, who wasted several chances including a poor corner and a header from Haaland that sailed over the bar.

Match Stats

Possession: Man City 59% – Spurs 41%
Shots on Target: Man City 5 – Spurs 7
Corners: Man City 7 – Spurs 2
Fouls: Man City 12 – Spurs 7

Lineups

Manchester City XI: Trafford, Lewis, Stones, Dias, Aït-Nouri (Aké 23’), González, Bobb, Cherki (Silva 54’), Reijnders, Marmoush (Doku 54’), Haaland.

Tottenham XI: Vicario, Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence, Sarr, Palhinha, Bentancur, Kudus, Richarlison, Johnson.

Substitutes included Foden, Rodri, Solanke, and Odobert.Spurs stun Manchester City at Etihad

Final Whistle

The victory sees Spurs make a huge statement early in the season, while Manchester City will be left asking questions about their form and Guardiola’s tactical decisions. For Tottenham, this could be the start of something special under Thomas Frank.Manchester City vs Tottenham 2025