Manchester City moved to within two points of Premier League leaders Arsenal after a hard-fought 2-1 win over Newcastle United at the Etihad Stadium.
Arsenal’s midweek slip, surrendering a two-goal advantage against Wolverhampton Wanderers had handed City an opening in the title race.
Pep Guardiola’s side capitalised, although they were pushed to the limit by a resilient Newcastle team.
O’Reilly double decisive
City made a sharp start and went ahead in the 14th minute through Nico O’Reilly. His powerful strike slipped past Nick Pope, who managed to get a hand to the effort but could not keep it out.
Newcastle responded quickly. Lewis Hall levelled the contest when his shot deflected beyond Gianluigi Donnarumma off Rayan Ait-Nouri after City failed to clear a corner.
Parity was short-lived. After 27 minutes, Erling Haaland delivered a precise cross following strong work by Antoine Semenyo, allowing O’Reilly to head home his second at the far post.
Late anxiety at the Etihad
Newcastle, despite recent travel to face Qarabag in European competition, remained competitive throughout.
The visitors created late pressure, and City required a crucial save from Donnarumma to deny Harvey Barnes in the closing stages.
The victory means pressure on Arsenal ahead of their north London derby against Tottenham, and tightens the race at the summit.
City now sit firmly within striking distance as the title battle enters a decisive phase.
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