The match was essentially decided in a whirlwind 15-minute first-half spell. City's relentless high press and aggressive defensive line, led by and Rúben Dias , forced Fulham into consistent errors while building out from the back.

New signing Antoine Semenyo opened the scoring in the 24th minute, marking his fifth goal for the club.

Just six minutes later, academy graduate Nico O'Reilly doubled the lead with a composed finish, assisted by Semenyo .