February 21, (THEWILL) – Manchester City moved to within one point of English Premier League leaders Liverpool on Tuesday night, thanks to a narrow 1-0 victory over Brentford at the Etihad Stadium. The tense affair saw City dominate possession, but struggle to break down a resolute Brentford defence until the 71st minute, when Erling Haaland pounced on a mistake to slot home his 22nd goal of the campaign.
The result leaves reigning champions City breathing down Liverpool’s neck in what is shaping up to be a thrilling three-horse title race alongside Arsenal, who are just one point further back with 13 games remaining. Brentford had opportunities of their own on the counter attack to cause an upset, with Frank Onyeka going close in the first half.
Manager, Pep Guardiola, opted to rest midfield maestro, Kevin De Bruyne, but his invention was missed as City carved out chance after chance without applying the finishing touch. However, Haaland inevitably made the breakthrough to secure a vital win, racing onto a through ball from Julian Alvarez to showcase his lethal instincts in front of goal.
There was nearly a late second as substitute Phil Foden forced two excellent saves out of Bees goalkeeper, Mark Flekken. Still, one goal was enough to take City top on goal difference ahead of the rest of the campaign, where dropped points could prove costly with Liverpool ready to pounce.
The title race is heating up with little margin for error for any of the Big Three. Guardiola will be demanding more cutthroat performances from his side as the season approaches its finale, with goal difference potentially pivotal.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
