Manchester City strengthens their Champions League qualification bid

KATHMANDU: Manchester City bolstered their chances of qualifying for the UEFA Champions League by climbing to third place in the English Premier League after a 3-1 home victory over AFC Bournemouth on Tuesday.

Bournemouth’s hopes of European football next season have now ended.

The match started with a brilliant goal from Omar Marmoush in the 14th minute, giving Pep Guardiola’s side an early lead.

Although Kevin De Bruyne, playing his final home game for the club, missed a golden opportunity to double the advantage, Bernardo Silva scored in the 38th minute to extend City’s lead.

The game was marked by two red cards: Mateo Kovacic was sent off, cutting short De Bruyne’s farewell appearance at the Etihad Stadium, while Bournemouth’s Luis Cook also received a red card.

Both teams finished the match with 10 players.

Nico Gonzalez, who came on as a substitute, sealed the win with a goal in the 89th minute. Bournemouth’s consolation came late in injury time from Daniel Jebbison.

With this win, City moved up to third place with 68 points. Securing just one point in their final game against Fulham on Sunday will guarantee their spot in the top five.

Elsewhere, Crystal Palace defeated Wolves 4-2, moving to 12th place with 52 points, while Wolves remain in 14th with 41 points.