Erling Haaland scored twice as Manchester City defeated Ipswich Town 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium, extending Enzo Maresca's record-breaking start as the first manager in history to win his first seven games in charge. The match was City's first home Premier League fixture since being found to have breached financial rules, and the fans' defiance was palpable. The background to this story is set out in Enzo Maresca Named Manchester City Manager After Pep Guardiola. A related thread runs through Enzo Maresca: The Challenge of Following Pep Guardiola at Man. Earlier coverage in Enzo Maresca Faces Mammoth Task After Pep Guardiola at Man shows how the argument developed.
Haaland's Double Seals the Win
After a tense first half where Ipswich defended deep with a low block, City broke the deadlock through Phil Foden, who kissed the badge in celebration. Erling Haaland then secured the points with a clinical double, moving City six points clear at the top of the table. Despite the scoreline, Ipswich put up a fight, with Gary O'Neil's side frustrating the hosts for long periods. A closer look at the same subject appears in Enzo Maresca Faces Challenge of Following Pep Guardiola at City. Anyone following the wider picture can start with Enzo Maresca First Media Address After Man City Verdict. The same theme surfaces in Enzo Maresca: Managing Manchester City a Privilege and, which takes a different angle.
Maresca's Record Start
Enzo Maresca has now won his first seven games in charge, a feat never achieved before in English football. His tactical adjustments, including six changes to the starting lineup, eventually paid off as City's superior quality shone through. The Italian manager has quickly instilled a winning mentality, and the fans are beginning to believe in a successful era. Context on how this played out before sits in Retaining Rodri Key to Manchester City Success Under Enzo Maresca. A companion piece, Enzo Fernández Proves Maresca Right in Manchester City Move, approaches the same subject from another angle.
Key Statistics: Manchester City vs Ipswich
| Statistic | Manchester City | Ipswich Town |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 78% | 22% |
| Shots | 18 | 5 |
| Shots on Target | 7 | 1 |
| Corners | 9 | 2 |
| Fouls | 8 | 14 |
Key Takeaways
- Haaland's brace takes his season tally to 12 goals in all competitions.
- Maresca's perfect start continues with a seventh consecutive win.
- City move six points clear at the top of the Premier League.
- Ipswich's disciplined defensive display earns praise despite the loss.
- Foden's goal and badge-kiss highlight his growing influence.
FAQ
How many games has Enzo Maresca won since taking over at Manchester City?
How many games has Enzo Maresca won since taking over at Manchester City?
Enzo Maresca has won his first seven games in charge, setting a new record for a manager in English football.

What was the score in Manchester City vs Ipswich?
What was the score in Manchester City vs Ipswich?
Manchester City won 2-0, with goals from Phil Foden and a brace from Erling Haaland.
How many goals has Erling Haaland scored this season?
How many goals has Erling Haaland scored this season?
Erling Haaland has scored 12 goals in all competitions for Manchester City this season.