Manchester City FC are trailing 2-1 against Aston Villa FC in a dramatic Premier League final-day clash at the Etihad Stadium.
The match has also turned emotional as veteran midfielder Bernardo Silva walked off the pitch for what is expected to be his final appearance for Manchester City.
Bernardo Silva Receives Emotional Farewell
City manager Pep Guardiola made a double substitution in the 58th minute, replacing Bernardo Silva and Antoine Semenyo with Mateo Kovacic and Rayan Cherki.
The Etihad crowd gave Silva a standing ovation as the Portuguese midfielder exited, marking the end of a hugely successful chapter with the club.
Watkins Turns Match Around for Villa
Ollie Watkins has been the star of the second half, scoring twice to put Aston Villa ahead.
Villa equalised immediately after halftime when Watkins converted from a corner in the 47th minute. He then completed his brace in the 61st minute with a composed finish after weaving through the City defence.
The goal was initially ruled out for offside before VAR overturned the decision.
City Started Strongly
Manchester City had dominated the first half and deservedly led 1-0 through Antoine Semenyo’s 23rd-minute goal.
The home side controlled possession and registered 12 shots before halftime while Villa failed to register a single attempt.
Guardiola’s Final Match in Charge
The game also marks the final appearance of Guardiola as Manchester City manager after a trophy-laden era at the club.
Although City missed out on the Premier League title earlier in the week after Arsenal sealed the championship, supporters at the Etihad are focused on giving Guardiola and departing players an emotional send-off.