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The League One outfit knew they needed a miracle to overcome the Cityzens and that’s what they received in the first half. Jamie Donley’s exceptional long-range effort resulted in Stefan Ortega’s own goal as Orient dazed their esteemed visitors.
City’s persistence paid off after the break, however, with an effort from Rico Lewis deflecting off Abdukodir Khusanov as last year’s FA Cup runners-up tied things up. Substitute De Bruyne then proceeded to complete the comeback with a neat finish from Jack Grealish’s pass.
How the game unfolded
Despite the chasm in quality between the two sides, Orient were not overawed by the reigning Premier League champions during the early stages and scored a staggering opener in the 16th minute.
Charlie Kelman had already seen his shot saved before Tottenham Hotspur loanee Donley produced a stunning lob from 50 yards that ricocheted off the crossbar and Stefan Ortega before crossing the line. City felt debutant Nico Gonzalez was fouled in the build-up but VAR’s absence meant the goal stood.
The £50m winter signing was swiftly withdrawn due to injury as City frantically chased a face-saving equaliser. They struggled to create a glut of clear-cut opportunities in the first period but substitute Bernardo Silva came close as his effort was cleared off the line and Omar Marmoush saw his strike rebuffed by Josh Keeley.
An excellent intervention from half-time substitute Khusanov prevented the hosts from doubling their advantage and the Uzbekistani defender managed a vital touch at the other end as City eventually found their leveller. Lewis’ shot from outside the area fortuitously bounced off the 20-year-old’s head and wrong-footed Keeley in the Orient goal.
James McAtee struck the post shortly afterwards with an …
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