Matheus Nunes expressed his delight after netting a dramatic stoppage-time winner—his first Premier League goal for Manchester City—in a 2–1 triumph over Aston Villa.

The Portuguese midfielder sent the Etihad Stadium into raptures when he converted from Jérémy Doku’s cross in the 94th minute, securing a crucial three points that lifted City into third place in the Premier League standings.

Bernardo Silva had given the home side an early lead with a seventh-minute strike, only for Marcus Rashford to equalise for Villa from the penalty spot 11 minutes later.

James McAtee came close to restoring City’s advantage during the second half, but it was Nunes who emerged as the late hero, his decisive goal ensuring City’s Champions League aspirations remain firmly in their own control, with four league fixtures remaining.

Speaking after the match, Nunes described his goal as both timely and essential:

“It was incredibly important—perfect timing! It honestly couldn’t have come at a better moment. It was unbelievable.

“It was a very tough match against a strong opponent. We came into it knowing we had to win—and that’s exactly what we did.

“We’ll see just how crucial these three points are at the end of the season. Every match now matters hugely, and we’ll approach each one determined to take all three points.”

With City still in the hunt for domestic honours, Pep Guardiola’s men will turn their attention to Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final clash with Nottingham Forest.

Nunes highlighted the squad’s hunger to carry their momentum into that competition as well:

“We’re going to give everything to win that match too. Of course, we want to lift the trophy,” he affirmed.

“It’s a massive match for us—we’re focused on winning the semi-final and then going all the way.

“Hopefully, we get the job done.”