Antoine Semenyo delivered a decisive blow as Manchester City edged Leeds United 1-0 at Elland Road. The narrow win keeps the title race alive.
The result trimmed Arsenal’s advantage to just two points at the summit. Yet for long spells, City rode their luck.
They arrived without injured talisman Erling Haaland, who picked up a training knock and his absence was glaring as Leeds surged forward early.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin squandered a golden chance inside four minutes when he poked wide from eight yards after meeting Brenden Aaronson’s inviting cross. The striker later dragged another effort off target from a tight angle. Leeds’ energy rattled the champions, but it yielded no reward.
Then came the moment. Semenyo stretched to meet Rayan Ait-Nouri’s low delivery and steered home before half-time. It was his sixth City goal since a January switch from Bournemouth.
City grind out crucial points as Arsenal feel pressure at the top
Coming to a raucous Elland Road and leaving with all three point, despite being second best for large periods, is the type of result that many a title-winning side has had before. With 10 games remaining, City are right in the mix.
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They have put pressure back on Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, who host Chelsea on Sunday. The Gunners aim to restore a five-point cushion.
Pep Guardiola admitted Haaland was not fully fit, as it remains unclear if he returns against Nottingham Forest on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, £62.5m recruit Semenyo justified his price with sharp instincts. His poacher’s touch echoed the absent Norwegian’s presence. Nico O’Reilly nearly added another when his header forced a reflex stop from Karl Darlow. City survived, even as play paused briefly for Ramadan observance.
Leeds kept pressing after the break. Aaronson missed from close range, and James Justin was denied by Gianluigi Donnarumma. Substitute Jaka Bijol headed wide late on as hope flickered. Still, Leeds could not end a run of six straight league defeats to City.
They remain six points clear of danger despite missed opportunity.
Leeds host Sunderland next, while City face Forest with renewed belief.
Tags: Antoine Semenyo, Manchester City, Leeds United, #LUFC, #MCFC, #AFC, #PremierLeague26, Premier League, Karl Darlow, Nico O’Reilly, Elland Road.
