Manchester City’s lesser-known Belgian defender Dedryck Boyata paid tribute to his cousin who died three weeks ago after scoring in the Premier League champions’ 4-1 defeat of Sporting Kansas City.
Boyata’s 45th minute header followed goals from Bruno Zuculini and the American side’s CJ Sapong before second-half strikes from Aleksandar Kolarov and Nigerian Kelechi Icheanacho wrapped up the match against their MLS opponents for City’s first game of their USA tour.
MATCH SHOT: Boyata powers home City’s second of the evening #cityontour pic.twitter.com/IvnBJ1reZ4
— Manchester City FC (@MCFC) July 24, 2014
Boyata said he sensed something watching over him all game and that spurred him onto scoring after a mixed past season where he made just two league appearances for City.
“It’s an emotional dedication,” the 23-year-old told MCFCTV.
“I felt like I had an angel looking after me because it was my cousin’s birthday today.
“It’s my little sister’s birthday today too so I think I had people watching over me. Maybe it’s because of them. If I can thank them for that I would.”
Boyata recently signed a two-year contract extension at the Etihad as he seeks to stay with what he described as “one of the biggest clubs.”
Boyata added: “Having the chance to stay here for two more years, I’m really grateful. We all know Manchester City is one of the biggest clubs. Today I’m more than happy to be still on this team.”
Belgian-born Boyata has one cap for his country though also qualifies as a homegrown player in England.
Main image courtesy of Manchester City FC via YouTube, with thanks.
