Haaland fires Man City to victory against Palace, piles pressure on Arsenal

Manchester City dominated for large parts of the game but were wasteful with their chances. When it looked like they were heading for another unfavourable result in the title race, they won a penalty which Haaland dispatched expertly.

Crystal Palace hosted Manchester City at Selhurst Park in their Premier League encounter. Palace are something of a bogey team for Manchester City, and with the game looking to end in a draw, a Haaland penalty in the 87th minute of the game gave City maximum points.  

The victory meant Manchester City kept pace with Arsenal, cutting their lead to two points.  Palace, on the other hand, continue their abysmal run of no wins this year.

Manchester City were dominant in the first-half of proceedings as they had the bulk of the ball, and camped Crystal Palace in their own half.

They were also solid in defensive transitions, with Ake a standout performer, limiting Crystal Palace to scraps.  

Haaland and Foden got on the end of a number of chances, but they did not manage to break the deadlock.

The second-half mirrored the first, save for a goal late in the game. Pep took off Foden and brought on Alvarez, who got on the end of a really good chance but skied his effort.

The game was headed for a tie, but a clumsy challenge in the box on Gundogan meant City were handed a chance late in the game from the penalty spot.  

Haaland stepped up to take it, and he made no mistake, sending Guaita the wrong and bringing Manchester two points closer to the summit.