Cherki’s Goal Puts City Ahead vs Forest as Benin Faces Botswana in AFCON Clash

Football action is heating up with Rayan Cherki giving Manchester City the lead against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground. Meanwhile, in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Benin takes on Botswana in a crucial group stage encounter.

At the Premier League clash, Cherki impressed by delivering a slick slide-through pass that allowed Tijjani Reijnders to score for City early in the second half. Nottingham Forest quickly responded through Omari Hutchinson, leveling the score and sparking an intense contest.

Manchester City Lineup and Tactics

Pep Guardiola fielded a trusted attacking trio featuring Cherki, Phil Foden, and Erling Haaland, continuing the formula that has served the team well in recent weeks. Despite City’s dominance in possession, Sean Dyche’s Forest kept their hosts at bay, creating opportunities while disrupting City’s rhythm.

AFCON Group Stage Battle

In the AFCON match, Benin took an early lead through defender Yohan Roche, a decisive goal that could shape their chances of advancing. Both Benin and Botswana entered the game after losing their opening group matches, making this clash pivotal in the tournament’s early rounds.

Key Fixtures Overview

1. Premier League

   • Manchester City vs Nottingham Forest: Cherki provides the opener, with Forest equalizing soon after.
   • Arsenal vs Brighton: Eberechi Eze dropped to the bench; Leandro Trossard starts.
   • Liverpool vs Wolves: Federico Chiesa gets a rare start due to Mohamed Salah’s AFCON duty.
   • Brentford vs Bournemouth and Everton vs Burnley: Matches underway with team news released.

2. AFCON

   • Senegal vs D.R. Congo: Upcoming knockout place battle.
   • Benin vs Botswana: Benin leads with Roche’s goal.
3. Serie A
   • Parma secured a vital 3-point win over Fiorentina to relieve relegation pressure.
   • Lecce, Como, Torino, and Cagliari also preparing for afternoon fixtures.

Despite the festive period, football continues to deliver thrilling moments across top leagues and international tournaments. Manchester City’s attacking display is being closely watched, with Cherki’s involvement promising further excitement. Meanwhile, AFCON groups remain intensely competitive as teams like Benin strive for advancement through crucial early victories.