In a match that had everything—drama, heartbreak, and a stunning late twist—Everton came within minutes of a famous victory over Manchester City at Hill Dickinson, only for the Premier League champions to snatch a 3-3 draw at the death. For the Blues, this was a tale of what might have been, as a Barry brace and a relentless team effort nearly delivered a result for the ages.
After back-to-back defeats following the international break, Everton faced their toughest test yet: a Manchester City side that hadn't lost in the league since early January and was in full end-of-season sprint mode. The Toffees had a chance to do Mikel Arteta a favor by halting the sky blue charge, but more importantly, they needed to rediscover their own form.
David Moyes rang the changes, making three alterations from last week's lineup. Beto, fit again, replaced Thierno Barry up front, while Merlin Rohl came in for Dwight McNeil. The surprise inclusion was Tim Iroegbunam, stepping in for the absent Idrissa Gueye. Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola, fresh off a nine-day break following their FA Cup triumph, rotated heavily with eight changes. Only Wembley match-winner Nico Gonzalez, Matheus Nunes, and Rayan Cherki kept their places. Rodri remained sidelined in rehab, but former—and potentially future—Everton man John Stones was named on the bench. It was a full-strength City, hungry for a win to reclaim top spot.
From the kickoff, the atmosphere was electric, with the crowd delivering a heartfelt "Forever Everton" chant. City dominated possession early, building patiently as the Blues pressed only in glimpses. There was little sympathy for Cherki after he went down under no apparent contact from Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. When Dewsbury-Hall drove forward, the swarm of grey shirts quickly closed him down. An early corner was delivered short, but O'Brien defended stoutly. City's first shot curled over the bar, much to the home fans' delight.
Pep's men were content to pass and probe, with Doku emerging as their primary threat. City racked up corner after corner, but Everton's backline held firm. Haaland's first touch was expertly marshaled by Garner, who drew a foul. For the opening 15 minutes, City's possession hovered near 90%. Doku broke in and slid the ball to O'Reilly, but he couldn't quite connect with Haaland. Moments later, the game would turn on its head—and Everton would find themselves on the brink of a result that would send shockwaves through the league.