‘If this was on purpose, it’s Puskas’: Ilkay Gundogan scores a stunning fluke for Manchester City at the Club World Cup

Ilkay Gundogan opened the scoring for Manchester City in their 6-0 victory over Al Ain during the FIFA Club World Cup, delivering a goal that many described as both beautiful and fortunate. The 34-year-old midfielder’s shot from a deflected corner looped into the net after an awkward bounce, catching the goalkeeper unawares and allowing Gundogan to lob the ball with his weaker left foot.

The goal was initially believed to be a cross aimed at Erling Haaland, but it unexpectedly found its way into the net. Fans reacted enthusiastically on social media, with one noting, “If this was on purpose, it’s Puskas”—a reference to the prestigious football award—while others called the goal “really beautiful,” despite its seemingly lucky nature.

Celebrating with his teammates after netting the goal.

However, not all commentary was celebratory. Former Manchester City goalkeeper Shay Given criticized the goal, attributing it to “poor goalkeeping” and commenting that Gundogan benefited from an error by Al Ain’s goalkeeper. This was further reinforced by observations that the goalkeeper didn’t react quickly or jump to save the shot.

City continued to dominate, with Claudio Echeverri scoring from a free-kick and Erling Haaland converting a penalty before halftime. Gundogan added his second goal of the match in the second half, and the scoresheet was later joined by Oscar Bobb and Rayan Cherki, sealing the commanding win for Manchester City.