Erling Haaland struck a decisive second-half winner as Manchester City boosted their Premier League title hopes with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
The clash between the top two sides had been billed as a potential title decider, and City took a significant step toward reclaiming the crown with a resilient display against an unfortunate Arsenal side that struck the woodwork twice.
City opened the scoring in the 16th minute through Ryan Cherki, who weaved past Arsenal’s defence before firing beyond David Raya.
The visitors responded almost immediately, with Kai Havertz capitalising on a costly error by Gianluigi Donnarumma—who was dispossessed in possession—to slot home the equaliser just two minutes later.
Arsenal pushed hard and came close to taking the lead, with Havertz denied by Donnarumma before Eberechi Eze rattled the post in quick succession.
However, Haaland delivered the decisive moment in the 65th minute, finishing off a well-worked team move for his 23rd league goal of the season to restore City’s advantage.
The result swings momentum in favour of Pep Guardiola’s side as the title race intensifies.
City now sit on 67 points from 32 matches, just three points behind Arsenal, who have played a game more.