Kathmandu,

December 23,

Manchester City emerged victorious in a Carabao Cup thriller at Etihad Stadium as Nathan Ake's first goal since April eventually saw off the challenge of holders Liverpool.

In a breathless return to action after the 2022 World Cup break, City took the lead on two occasions through Erling Haaland and Riyad Mahrez only to give it up to Fabio Carvalho and Mohamed Salah strikes.

However, it proved third time lucky for Pep Guardiola's men when Nathan Ake nodded in at the back post to carve out an advantage that the hosts ultimately held onto.