Manchester City throws open English title fight with win over Arsenal

Manchester City dealt Arsenal a major blow in the battle for the English national title. The reigning champions won 3-1 on a visit to their rival, who must now share the lead with City. Arsenal still has a game to go.

On their way to the important win, City was helped into the saddle midway through the first half by Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu. The Japanese played a far too short back pass, which Kevin de Bruyne took advantage of. Although it was no mean feat to work the ball into the goal from 20 yards with one touch over goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

Arsenal’s equalizer also came with some help, as referee Anthony Taylor awarded the penalty kick taken by Bukayo Saka after a collision between goalkeeper Ederson and Eddie Nketiah.

Still, City could have gone into halftime with a lead, but for that the bar hung just a little too low on a Nathan Aké effort, who barely realized he was extending a Rodri header with his lower leg.

The 2-1 for City still came in the 72nd minute when Jack Grealish puffed in after a smooth attack, with Pep Guardiola’s team finding space in the Arsenal defense like a rugby team with short passes from right to left.

Erling Haaland’s 3-1 was also preceded by a fine attack, this time through the heart of the defense. With Haaland’s 26th league goal of the season, though, the English topper was played.