Marmoush hat-trick helps reigning champions to comfortable win

Manchester City cruised to a 4-0 victory over Newcastle at the Etihad, with Omar Marmoush stealing the show with a stunning first-half hat-trick.

A late goal from James McAtee capped off a dominant performance from Pep Guardiola’s side, who continue their charge back into the top four.

City started the match with confidence following their loss to Real Madrid on Tuesday, dominating possession against the Magpies.

The deadlock was broken in the 19th minute, courtesy of a brilliant piece of play from goalkeeper Ederson. The Brazilian launched a pinpoint pass over the top of the Newcastle defence, finding Marmoush in stride.

The Egyptian forward controlled the ball effortlessly before lifting a sublime finish over Martin Dubravka to open the scoring and register his first Premier League goal.

Buoyed by his opener, Marmoush doubled his tally just five minutes later. Ilkay Gundogan was instrumental, surging forward before picking out his teammate on the edge of the box. Marmoush took a touch before unleashing a low drive that beat Dubravka at his near post, putting City firmly in control.

The 24-year-old completed his hat-trick in the 33rd minute. Savinho, who was a constant menace on the right flank, dribbled past Lewis Hall before cutting the ball back into the area.

Marmoush arrived unmarked and calmly slotted his first-time finish past the helpless Newcastle goalkeeper to make it 3-0, capping off an emphatic first-half performance from the hosts.

FULL-TIME | Fantastic four! 🤩

🩵 4-0 ⚫️ #ManCity | @okx pic.twitter.com/2JgLmFXKqM

— Manchester City (@ManCity) February 15, 2025

Eddie Howe’s side found themselves overwhelmed and unable to generate any meaningful attacking opportunities.

Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon were left isolated, while Bruno Guimaraes and Joe Willock struggled to get a foothold in midfield.

Newcastle managed just one shot on target, a speculative effort from substitute Lewis Miley in the 60th minute, which was easily dealt with by Ederson.

Manchester City wrapped up the win in the 84th minute with a fourth goal. Gundogan’s corner was flicked on by Erling Haaland, finding James McAtee in space. The youngster reacted instinctively, volleying home from close range to score his first Premier League goal and put the finishing touch on an emphatic victory.

The only downside for City was a late injury concern for Haaland, who limped off after an apparent non-contact knee issue. With a crucial Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid looming, Guardiola will be hoping for positive news on his star striker.

The win sees City move up to fourth in the Premier League table, three points behind third-placed Nottingham Forest. Their attention now turns to their European clash with Real Madrid before a highly anticipated showdown with Liverpool next weekend.

For Newcastle, a disappointing night leaves them seventh in the standings, with a crucial fixture against Nottingham Forest in eight days’ time.