Manchester City closed the gap on Premier League leaders Arsenal as Erling Haaland’s brace powered the Citizens to a 3–0 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Sunday.
The win moved City to within two points of Arsenal after a hard-fought success in south London.
Haaland opened the scoring late in the first half, before England forward Phil Foden doubled City’s advantage after the break.
Haaland then wrapped up the result with his 23rd goal of the season, sealing City’s fifth consecutive win in all competitions.
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Arsenal’s dramatic late victory over bottom club Wolves on Saturday had increased the pressure on City to respond, and Guardiola’s men delivered, overcoming a disjointed display through the quality of their finishing.
“Erling is a forward who scores goals, but in the second half, he also kept the ball very well,” Guardiola said.
“He managed situations, helped the team stay compact, and was outstanding after the break.”
Fresh from a 2–1 comeback win away to Real Madrid in a Champions League clash in midweek, the Citizens faced a very different challenge in freezing south London against opponents they had not played since their shock FA Cup final defeat at Wembley in May.
“It is a really tough place to come,” Guardiola added.
“When you lose the ball, they attack incredibly well, but we were patient. We were lucky when they hit the post, but I’m really pleased with the performance and the victory to grow our mentality.
“In the first half, we were in too much of a rush. After that, we played with the tempo we should.”
