In a dramatic and chaotic encounter at the Etihad Stadium, Phil Foden emerged as the match-winning hero for Manchester City, scoring a last-gasp winner to secure a 3-2 victory over a resilient Leeds United side.
Foden Steps Up When It Matters
The match on December 1, 2025, seemed to be following a familiar script for the champions early on. City established a comfortable two-goal cushion, with Foden opening the scoring before defender Josko Gvardiol added a second. However, the visitors staged a remarkable comeback in the second half.
Substitute Dominic Calvert-Lewin pulled a goal back for Leeds, then won a penalty which was converted by Lukas Nmecha to level the scores. With City staring at two dropped points, Foden intervened deep into stoppage time, pouncing to score his second and break Leeds hearts, sealing a vital three points.
Guardiola's 'Gift' Returns to His Best
City manager Pep Guardiola could not hide his delight at Foden's decisive contribution, describing the England international as a 'gift'. The Spanish coach highlighted a significant return to form for a player who endured a difficult previous season.
"This season has been the Phil we met a long, long time ago," Guardiola said. "The impact of that guy when he arrived at 16, 17 years old in the training sessions. Oh my God, what a player. It's a joy, pleasure, it's a gift to have him." He praised Foden's mentality and composure to decide the game.
Foden's Hunger and Leadership
Speaking after the match, Foden himself revealed a renewed appetite and confidence, positioning himself as a key leader within Guardiola's squad. "I'm just feeling better about my game. I would say I've become more mature. I think now I'm one of the leaders," Foden stated.
He acknowledged the frustration of a missed chance in a previous game against Newcastle had been 'eating me up inside', fuelling his desire to make amends. "I have the hunger inside me... I managed to score two crucial goals to help us win the game. That's the kind of player I want to be," he added, seeing the performance as a major step forward.
Leeds Take Confidence From Defeat
Despite the heartbreaking nature of the loss, Leeds boss Daniel Farke found positives in his team's performance against one of the world's best sides. "We played one of the best sides in the world. With the best manager in the world," Farke said. "One moment of magic from Phil Foden has won it, but we should take lots of confidence."
The result leaves Manchester City firmly in the title conversation, largely thanks to the rejuvenated brilliance of Phil Foden, whose late intervention provided Pep Guardiola with the perfect early Christmas present.
