Man City Narrow Gap on Arsenal with 3-0 Victory Over Crystal Palace

Manchester City reduced the deficit on Premier League leaders Arsenal as Erling Haaland’s brace led a 3-0 triumph against Crystal Palace on Sunday.

Pep Guardiola’s side moved within two points of Arsenal following a hard-fought win at Selhurst Park.

Haaland opened the scoring late in the first half, while England international Phil Foden doubled the lead early in the second half. Haaland then converted a penalty in the 89th minute, marking his 23rd goal of the season and securing City’s fifth consecutive victory in all competitions.

Arsenal’s late win over bottom-placed Wolves on Saturday had intensified the pressure on City, but Guardiola’s men responded with clinical finishing despite a largely subdued performance.

“Erling is a forward to score the goals, but in the second half he keeps the ball. He was able to contain situations. He helped us be together. In the second half he was outstanding,” Guardiola praised Haaland.

After a midweek comeback win at Real Madrid in the Champions League, City faced Palace for the first time since their shocking FA Cup final defeat at Wembley in May, where Palace had outsmarted Guardiola’s tactics. Sunday’s win allowed City to avenge that loss and maintain momentum in the title race ahead of the busy festive period.

“It is a really tough place to come. When you lose the ball they attack incredibly well, but we were patient. We were lucky when they hit the post, but really pleased for the performance and victory to grow our mentality,” Guardiola added.

City struggled to find rhythm against Palace’s defensive setup, with Yeremy Pino hitting the crossbar early in the second half and Dean Henderson making several key saves. Foden’s sixth league goal in four games put City further ahead in the 69th minute after a run from Rayan Cherki set him up. Haaland sealed the victory from the penalty spot in the 89th minute following a foul on Savinho.

The win keeps Manchester City firmly in contention for the Premier League title as they prepare for the congested Christmas schedule.

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