Man City close up on Arsenal in title race with 4-1 win over Southampton

Erling Haaland’s brace helped Manchester City secure a comfortable 4-1 victory over bottom-placed Southampton at St Mary’s, moving them five points behind league leaders Arsenal.

Pep Guardiola’s side had suffered a 2-0 shock defeat to the Saints in the EFL Cup quarter-finals in January, but they were in dominant form on Saturday.

City took an early lead through Haaland’s powerful header, which was assisted by Kevin De Bruyne, who reached a career milestone of 100 Premier League assists.

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Shortly into the second half, Jack Grealish doubled their lead with a composed finish. Haaland then scored his 30th Premier League goal of the season before Julian Alvarez converted a penalty to seal City’s fifth consecutive league win.

The visitors were quick off the mark, creating chances within the opening minutes. Haaland came close to scoring with a header, but he made no mistake when De Bruyne’s exquisite cross found him, heading the ball past Gavin Bazunu to give City the lead.

Grealish extended their lead with a rebounded shot after Bazunu initially denied him. Haaland added his second with a stunning bicycle kick, and although Sekou Mara pulled a goal back for Southampton, it was too little too late.

Alvarez sealed the victory for City from the penalty spot after Kyle Walker-Peters fouled De Bruyne.