With Rodri sidelined after knee ligament surgery in Spain, Guardiola started both Ilkay Gundogan and Mateo Kovacic. City began strongly, taking the lead in the 35th minute through Josko Gvardiol, assisted by Jack Grealish. However, Newcastle improved after halftime, equalizing just before the hour when Anthony Gordon converted a penalty after being fouled by City goalkeeper Ederson.