Super Eagles target beats Doku to MotM award after Man City’s 6-goal thriller vs Everton

Everton midfielder Tim Iroegbunam has been named Man of the Match following the Toffees’ dramatic 3-3 Premier League draw against Man City on Monday, Afrik-Foot reports.

The contest, played at Everton’s new Hill Dickinson Stadium, delivered six goals, late drama, and a performance full of grit from Iroegbunam, who stepped in for the injured Idrissa Gueye.

Tasked with breaking up City’s rhythm, the 22-year-old produced a tireless display in midfield, making seven tackles and several key interceptions to frustrate the visitors.

Despite strong competition for the award, Iroegbunam was officially recognised for his defensive impact. Everton substitute Thierno Barry, who scored twice, or Merlin Röhl could have taken the prize. The same goes for Man City winger Jérémy Doku, whose two goals, including a stoppage-time equaliser, stole the spotlight.

Interestingly, Doku and Barry have been included in the Premier League nominations for the Player of the Matchweek, which has no room for Iroegbunam. Super Eagles forward Taiwo Awoniyi is considered favourite to win that award, though, following his excellent showing for Forest at Chelsea.

Still, Iroegbunam’s discipline, energy, and timing in key moments earned him the honour of the official best player of the Everton vs Man City match.

Six-goal Everton thriller shakes Man City title hopes

The match itself unfolded in two clear phases. Manchester City dominated early on, controlling possession and dictating play. Their pressure paid off in the 43rd minute when Jérémy Doku curled a fine effort into the top corner after being set up by Rayan Cherki.

After the break, however, the game turned chaotic. Everton found a way back in the 68th minute when a poor back-pass from Marc Guéhi was punished by Thierno Barry, who calmly finished to make it 1-1. Just five minutes later, defender Jake O’Brien powered in a header from a James Garner corner to put the hosts ahead.

Barry struck again in the 81st minute to seemingly seal a famous victory for David Moyes’ side. But City responded immediately through Erling Haaland, setting up a tense finish.

Deep into stoppage time, in the 97th minute, Doku scored his second of the night to rescue a point for City and cap a breathless encounter.

The result could prove costly for City’s title defence, leaving them five points behind leaders Arsenal with four games remaining for the former champions.

Still, the night belonged to Iroegbunam, whose performance could strengthen calls for his inclusion in Nigeria’s national setup.

The former Aston Villa star has now made 26 appearances in the Premier League this term, providing two assists and several defensive interventions.

Nurtured through the England youth system, Iroegbunam remains eligible to play for Nigeria and he is reportedly on the radar of Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle.

The ex-QPR star may require a one-time FIFA approved switch to play for the Super Eagles and will therefore not be under consideration for Nigeria’s squad to the Unity Cup later this month.