EPL: Kovacic shines with double as City hold on for win vs Fulham

Manchester City edged out Fulham 3-2 in a thrilling Premier League encounter, with Mateo Kovacic scoring twice.

His brace to helps Pep Guardiola’s side secure a nervy victory at the Etihad Stadium.

Fulham took the lead in the 27th minute through Andreas Pereira, after a brilliant piece of skill from Raul Jimenez set him up for the opener.

The Cottagers had a chance to double their lead soon after, but Adama Traore missed a crucial opportunity.

Kovacic scored twice for City in the encounter – Getty image

City quickly responded when Kovacic pounced on a loose ball from a corner to level the score.

He struck again early in the second half with a curling effort, giving City a 2-1 lead.

A third goal from substitute Jeremy Doku appeared to seal the win, but Rodrigo Muniz pulled one back for Fulham late on, making for a tense finish.

Despite Fulham’s late pressure, City held on, with Kovacic emerging as the unlikely hero of the match, stepping up in the absence of the injured Rodri to guide his team to victory.