Erling Haaland did not score in a Premier League game for the first time this season as Manchester City drew 1-1 with Newcastle on Saturday, losing points for the second weekend in a row.
This was City’s first league match since key midfielder Rodri was ruled out for the season due to an ACL injury, and the champions did not play at their usual level. Haaland barely had a chance to increase his tally of 10 goals from the first five games this season.
Instead, Josko Gvardiol scored to give City the lead in the 35th minute. The left back received a pass from Jack Grealish, moved inside onto his weaker right foot, and shot low into the corner.
Anthony Gordon equalized for Newcastle with a penalty in the 58th minute after he was tripped by City goalkeeper Ederson Moraes while going for the goal. Gordon was playing as the central striker because Alexander Isak was injured.
After winning their first four games in this title defense, City drew 2-2 against Arsenal last Sunday.
Arsenal and Liverpool, who are City’s main title rivals, will be playing Leicester and Wolverhampton, respectively, along with six other matches on Saturday.
