Erling Haaland scored after five minutes as Manchester City moved to the top of the Premier League with a 1-0 victory at Burnley on Thursday, pushing Arsenal down to second place while condemning the hosts to relegation.
The win ended Arsenal’s 200-day stay at the summit, with City moving above their title rivals on goals scored. Arsenal can reclaim first place when they host Newcastle on Saturday, while City next face Southampton in the FA Cup semifinal.
Haaland struck early after meeting Jérémy Doku’s pass and calmly chipping goalkeeper Martin Dúbravka for his 48th goal for club and country this season.
City dominated much of the contest and finished with 28 attempts on goal but failed to add a second. Haaland and Rayan Cherki both hit the woodwork, while Dúbravka made a series of saves to keep Burnley alive.
Burnley had chances to equalise but could not seriously trouble Gianluigi Donnarumma as their third relegation in the last three Premier League campaigns was confirmed.
The result also extended Burnley’s winless home league run to 13 matches.
City have now lost only once in their last 21 league games and hold the early advantage in the title race.
Oluwagbemisola Babalola
Follow us on:
