EPL: Haaland bags brace as Manchester City down Crystal Palace

Erling Haaland struck twice as Manchester City secured a hard-fought victory over Crystal Palace to keep pace with Premier League leaders Arsenal.

City capitalised on Palace’s missed chances to take maximum points in London, reducing the gap at the top to two points and extending their impressive league run.

Palace waste early momentum

The hosts started brightly and carved out the game’s clearest early opening when Yeremy Pino raced through on goal from Adam Wharton’s measured pass, only to crash his effort against the crossbar.

Palace continued to threaten without end product, a recurring issue that ultimately undermined their performance.

Haaland delivers clinical edge

City made Palace pay four minutes before half-time as Matheus Nunes’ cross was met by a powerful Haaland header.

After the break, Wharton again went close, rattling the post, before City asserted control.

Phil Foden doubled the lead with a fine finish, and Haaland sealed the result late on from the penalty spot after Savinho was fouled by Dean Henderson.

City maintain title pressure

The win marks City’s fourth straight league victory, each featuring at least three goals.

Haaland now has 17 league goals this season, underlining his decisive influence, while Foden’s sixth goal in five games across competitions further highlights Guardiola’s side resurgence, as City continue to push Arsenal in the title race.