Manchester City secured a vital three points in their Premier League campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over a determined Leeds United side at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.
First Half Dominance and Breakthrough
The home side started brightly, controlling possession and creating several early chances. Kevin De Bruyne pulled the strings in midfield, while Erling Haaland posed a constant threat to the Leeds defence. The pressure finally told in the 28th minute when a flowing City move resulted in Haaland powering a header past the Leeds goalkeeper from close range.
City continued to dominate after taking the lead, with Phil Foden going close to doubling their advantage just before half-time. Leeds struggled to maintain meaningful possession but defended resolutely to keep the deficit to just one goal at the interval.
Leeds Fightback and Tense Finish
The second half began with renewed intensity from the visitors, who grew into the game significantly. Leeds began pressing higher up the pitch and their persistence paid off in the 67th minute when a swift counter-attack caught City's defence off guard, resulting in a well-taken equaliser.
The game appeared to be heading for a draw until De Bruyne produced a moment of magic in the 82nd minute, curling a superb shot into the top corner from outside the box to restore City's lead. Leeds threw everything forward in the closing stages, including sending their goalkeeper up for a late corner, but City held firm to secure all three points.
What This Result Means
This victory provides a significant boost to Manchester City's Premier League title ambitions, keeping them firmly in the hunt at the top of the table. For Leeds, despite the defeat, their second-half performance demonstrated they can compete with the league's best teams.
The match highlighted City's resilience under pressure and their ability to find winning goals in tight situations. Meanwhile, Leeds will take confidence from their organised defensive display and effective counter-attacking play against one of the division's strongest sides.
Both teams now turn their attention to their next Premier League fixtures, with City looking to build momentum while Leeds seek to convert promising performances into points.
