Manchester City race to early lead before Rodri red card ruins rout

Manchester City had a comfortable two-goal lead at halftime, before a moment of Rodri madness derailed a potential rout of Nottingham Forest, instead settling for the 2-0 victory to extend their 100-percent record to six games.

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Phil Foden got the three-time defending Premier League champions off to a flying start after just seven minutes. Kyle Walker surged down the right side of the penalty area and got on the end of a sensational diagonal ball from Rodri, touching it back to Foden, who made the late-arriving run and put his left foot through the ball on the half-volley. The ball was hit with such power and precision that it was already past Matt Turner before the USMNT no. 1 could react.

1-0 became 2-0 just as quickly, as Erling Haaland bagged his PL-leading 8th goal of the season in the 14th minute. Once again, it was progress down the right flank that saw Forest pulled apart, only this time it was Matheus Nunes with the lofted cross to the far post where Haaland was somehow unmarked, all by himself, waiting to head back across goal.

The first half was as straightforward as could be for Man City, but the second period began in chaotic, disastrous fashion. Rodri shielded the ball by the corner flag, and the Spaniard seemingly took offense to efforts by Morgan Gibbs-White to win the ball back for Forest. Before the ball had even rolled out of play, Rodri turned his full attention to Gibbs-White and squared up chest to chest. First came a two-handed shove to the chest, then two hands around the neck of Gibbs-White — quickly retracted, but the offense had already been committed. Referee Anthony Taylor immediately drew his red card and sent Rodri off 25 seconds into the second half.

Rodri’s red card comes at a most inopportune time

Assuming he is banned the requisite three games for violent conduct, Rodri will miss Manchester City’s (presumed) title showdown with Arsenal on Oct. 8.

For two or three seasons now, Rodri has arguably been City’s most important/irreplaceable player. He is the metronome at the base of midfield when in possession, and the backline’s front-line shield out of possession; his long-range passing is second to none, which is even more important now that Haaland provides an over-the-top option; and he’s an incredible threat to shoot from distance when he ventures forward to join the attack.

In his absence, John Stones will likely be slotted into midfield, and though he was a revelation in a new role last season, he is not Rodri. Arsenal vs Man City got a whole lot more interesting two weeks before kickoff.

Manchester City vs Nottingham Forest, final score: 2-0

Goalscorers: Phil Foden (7'), Erling Haaland (14')

How to watch Manchester City vs Nottingham Forest live, stream link, time

Kickoff: 10am ET, Saturday (Sept. 23)

TV channel: USA Network

Stream: Watch online via NBCSports.com