Erling Haaland struck twice, including a penalty, to inspire Manchester City to a dominant 3-0 Premier League win against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Sunday.
The former Premier League champions had seen the gap between them and league leaders Arsenal extended to five points after the Gunners’ win over Wolves on Saturday night.
Pep Guardiola named a very attacking lineup, hoping to avenge their defeat to the Eagles in the FA Cup final in May.
The home side started brightly and wasted an early effort as Yeremy Pino struck the crossbar after being put through on goal by Adam Wharton.
The Cityzens took the lead five minutes before halftime through their big striker as Haaland headed in a superb delivery from Matheus Nunes.
Palace had an appeal for a penalty kick turned down after Gianluigi Donnarumma has challenged Mateta for a ball, as the first half ended in favor of the visitors.
The impressive Wharton hit the post in the second half, before Reijnders was also denied by a good save from Henderson.
However, Phil Foden continued his brilliant goalscoring form by grabbing City’s second of the game in the 68th minute after good work from Cherki in rhe buildup.
Eddie Nketiah was denied by Donnarumma as Palace continued to mount pressure on the city defense in search of a way back into the game.
Second half substitute Savinho was then brought down inside the box, resulting to a penalty kick for Man City.
Haaland stepped up and sent Henderson the wrong way to bag his brace and send his side three goals ahead.
The game ended in comfortable fashion for Pep Guardiola’s men, who closed the gap to Arsenal to just two points.
Manchester City will next be in action on Wednesday, when they welcome Brentford to the Etihad Stadium in the EFL Cup quarterfinals.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
