How do you stop a goal machine like Erling Haaland—and what happens when a seemingly comfortable victory suddenly turns into a nightmare? Manchester City discovered both sides of the question on Saturday as they edged Ipswich Town 3–2 in a thrilling Premier League encounter at the Etihad Stadium.

Haaland scored twice to help City maintain their perfect start to the league campaign, but Ipswich refused to surrender, setting up a tense finale that left the home supporters anxiously waiting for the final whistle.

Foden Fires City Ahead

Manchester City made an encouraging start and broke the deadlock in the 19th minute through Phil Foden, who finished after an impressive attacking move involving Jérémy Doku.

However, the celebrations barely had time to settle before Ipswich struck back. Just two minutes later, Daizen Maeda raced through the City defence and fired home to restore parity, reminding the hosts that the visitors had come to Manchester with a fight in them.

City responded by increasing the pressure, and their persistence paid off in the 34th minute. Mateo Kovačić delivered a dangerous ball into the area, allowing Haaland to rise and head home to put the hosts back in front.

Haaland Delivers Another Blow

The Norwegian striker continued his impressive performance after the break, extending City's advantage in the 69th minute.

Haaland used his strength to hold off his marker before connecting with a pass from Iliman Ndiaye and calmly finishing past the goalkeeper.

The goal appeared to put City firmly in control, but the visitors had one final response.

Ipswich Make City Sweat

With the match approaching its conclusion, Ipswich earned a penalty after Marc Guéhi fouled Abdul Fatawu inside the area. Zian Flemming stepped forward and converted in the 90th minute, reducing the deficit to 3–2.

Suddenly, what had looked like a comfortable City victory became a battle for survival. Ipswich pushed for an equaliser, but the hosts held on to secure all three points.

Maresca Makes Premier League History

The victory marked Manchester City's seventh consecutive league win under manager Enzo Maresca, making him the first manager to win his opening seven Premier League matches in charge of a club.

Haaland also reached 100 non-penalty Premier League goals in a record 139 appearances, further strengthening his reputation as one of the competition's most prolific forwards.

However, City's celebrations were tempered by injury concerns after Haaland was seen limping off, with further assessment needed to determine the extent of his problem.

Can Manchester City maintain their perfect league record, and how costly could Haaland's injury concern prove if the striker is forced to miss upcoming matches? Those questions will keep City supporters watching closely as the season unfolds.