Haaland winner over Arsenal helps Man City take charge in title race

Erling Haaland grabbed the winner as Manchester City blew the title race wide open with a 2-1 victory over leaders Arsenal in a heavyweight Etihad Stadium showdown. Rayan Cherki scored for the hosts just past the 15-minute mark. Kai Havertz blocked home a fortunate equaliser 107 seconds later. Haaland restored City's advantage in the 65th minute.

Arsenal pushed for another equaliser, but Havertz wasted a big chance right at the death. Arsenal were under the cosh following the restart, but should have claimed the lead on the hour when first Havertz was denied by Gianluigi Donnarumma before Eberechi Eze crashed a stonking effort against the post.

The result sees Pep Guardiola's men move to within three points of The Gunners with a game in hand. The Cityzens can now move top of the table if they win at Burnley on Wednesday night. Arsenal, who have now lost their last four domestic matches in all competitions, must regroup ahead of a home encounter with Newcastle United on Saturday.