Man City mount late comeback victory over Newcastle via De Bruyne

Manchester City pulled off a remarkable comeback victory late on Saturday, defeating Newcastle United 3-2 at St James’ Park. The home side had led 2-1 until the 69th minute when Kevin De Bruyne came off the bench for the visitors and completely changed the game.

De Bruyne scored within five minutes of being introduced to level the score at 2-2. The Belgian then set up fellow substitute Oscar Bobb to snatch a dramatic stoppage-time winner, sparking jubilant celebrations amongst the travelling City fans.

Earlier, Bernardo Silva had given City an early lead after 26 minutes. Still, stunning strikes from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon turned the game on its head to put Newcastle ahead. City dominated possession but looked vulnerable on the counterattack.

The comeback victory lifts the defending English Premier League champions into second place above Aston Villa, who play on Sunday. City manager Pep Guardiola praised his team’s character to fight back from behind twice. Meanwhile, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe was left to rue a missed opportunity for a major scalp.

In the end, it was De Bruyne’s introduction that proved pivotal. The Belgian star changed the flow of the game and led City’s late rally. His goal and assist for Bobb’s winner underlined his game-changing impact even off the bench.