Haaland's Stoppage-Time Rampage Exposes Burnley's Fragility

Très Divertissant Score Futmetrix: 75/100. A six-goal carnival masked by defensive chaos, where Erling Haaland's late heroics papered over Manchester City's earlier struggles.

When Possession Becomes a Weapon

City suffocated the midfield with 69% possession, yet the scoreline remained treacherous until the 90th minute. Intensity built through relentless shot volume—30 attempts, 10 on target—but Burnley's goalkeeper kept the door locked through 89 minutes. The Balance swung violently: Burnley led 1-0 after 38 minutes following J. Anthony's finish, then watched City claw back through own goals (M. Esteve in the 12th and 65th) and M. Nunes' 61st-minute leveler. Three lead changes in one match. One tied period. The narrative screamed Stakes—Burnley sits 18th, fighting relegation; City at 7th, desperate to climb.

The Haaland Crescendo

Then came the deluge. Haaland (9.2 rating) struck twice in injury time—first from Doku's assist at 90+0, then again at 90+1 to seal a 5-1 rout. The Norwegian's late heroics overshadowed a performance that had been frustratingly inefficient until the final whistle. Doku (8.9 rating) orchestrated the chaos with three key passes and one assist, while Nico González (7.5 rating) provided defensive stability in midfield.

Burnley's Defensive Breakdown

Two own goals in 53 minutes tell a story of panic. Burnley's defensive structure crumbled under pressure—12 corners conceded, 21 shots faced. The xG gap (City 2.03, Burnley 0.41) reflected the gulf in quality. Yet Burnley's early goal proved they weren't passive victims. Anthony's finish showed intent. The problem: they couldn't sustain it. City's 89% pass accuracy (566 of 638) and dominance in the final third eventually overwhelmed a side fighting on fumes.

The Verdict

This wasn't vintage City—it was a side that struggled to break down a struggling opponent until panic set in. Burnley's Stakes are now existential: four losses in their last five games leaves them five points adrift of safety. For City, the late goals mask a concerning pattern—two losses in their last three before this—but the three points are vital in a congested midtable.