Manchester City fought back from an early deficit to beat Arsenal 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium, with Erling Haaland's 65th-minute goal proving decisive in a thrilling Premier League encounter.
Arsenal arrived at the Etihad as league leaders, sitting top with 70 points from 32 games. Manchester City occupied second place, three points adrift with a game in hand. Both teams entered the match in strong form, setting up a fierce battle between England's top two sides.
The match exploded into life within seconds. Rayan Cherki fired Manchester City ahead in the 16th minute, latching onto a loose ball and converting with clinical finishing. City looked dangerous early, but Arsenal responded immediately.
Just two minutes later, in the 18th minute, Kai Havertz leveled for Arsenal. The German forward showed composure to find the back of the net, drawing the visitors level. The early exchanges had produced two goals in quick succession, setting a frantic tone.
Arsenal pressed hard after equalizing, but City controlled possession with 59 percent of the ball. The home side created chances through Jeremy Doku and others, though Arsenal's defense held firm. Defensive discipline remained strong on both sides as the first half progressed.
Tensions rose as the half wore on. Cristian Mosquera received a yellow card for Arsenal in the 36th minute. City's defensive solidity kept the score level heading into the break, despite Arsenal's efforts to find a second goal.
The second half saw City increase the intensity. Manuel Guehi picked up a yellow card in the 60th minute, suggesting rising tension on the pitch. City's attacking play grew more threatening as the half developed.
Haaland broke the deadlock in the 65th minute, firing City ahead with a composed finish. The Norwegian striker's goal proved to be the match-winner, shifting momentum decisively toward the home side. City's attacking prowess finally overwhelmed Arsenal's resistance.
Arsenal pushed for an equalizer but couldn't find a way through. Gabriel and Haaland both received yellow cards in the 83rd minute as tempers flared. Pep Guardiola earned a yellow card in the 84th minute during an animated exchange on the sideline.
City dominated the statistics, recording 15 total shots compared to Arsenal's nine. The home side managed five shots on target against Arsenal's three. City's expected goals stood at 1.41, while Arsenal's reached 1.52, showing both teams created genuine chances.
Cherki impressed throughout with an 8.5 rating and one goal, while O'Reilly earned 8.2 for his midfield control. Havertz led Arsenal's performers with a 7.3 rating despite the defeat. City's goalkeeper made just one save, reflecting their dominance.
The victory moves Manchester City to 67 points from 32 games, narrowing the gap on leaders Arsenal to one point. City now have momentum heading into their remaining fixtures, while Arsenal must respond to maintain their title charge.
