Manchester: Erling Haaland's second-half strike fired City to a priceless 2-1 Etihad win over leaders Arsenal and within three points of the Premier League summit. Amidst a raucous Etihad backdrop, Rayan Cherki had fired City into a 16th-minute lead after bamboozling the Gunners defense with a piece of skill before drilling home a shot.
According to Emirates News Agency, within 30 seconds, Arsenal drew level through Kai Havertz after the Gunners striker harried an attempted Gianluigi Donnarumma clearance, causing the ball to ricochet into the net. The match was an intense affair, with Arsenal striking the post twice after the break through Eberechi Eze and Gabriel.
A relentless City, who had also struck the woodwork twice through Cherki and Haaland, were not to be denied. And, as often happens, it was Haaland who delivered, the striker firing home on 65 minutes to lift the roof off the Etihad and secure three points. This win moved City within three points of the Gunners, with a game in hand.