Foden hat-trick sends Man City two points away from the top

Phil Foden’s hat-trick propelled Manchester City into second place in the Premier League, trailing leaders Liverpool by just two points, after a commanding victory over Brentford.

Despite the hosts initially taking the lead with Neal Maupay’s breakaway goal in the 21st minute, Brentford’s keeper, Mark Flekken, put on a heroic performance with a series of stunning saves to thwart the reigning champions until Foden’s crucial strike in first-half stoppage time.

Foden’s goal injected added momentum for City, and he secured his second eight minutes into the second half, exploiting a gap in Brentford’s defense to nod Kevin de Bruyne’s cross past the exposed Flekken.

Although Brentford had fleeting chances to level, including Ivan Toney’s close-range volley that went over, City demonstrated their superiority and sealed the victory 20 minutes from time.

Philip. Walter. Foden.

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Foden gracefully received Erling Haaland’s pass, guiding the ball past Flekken with precision.