Manchester City extended their unbeaten Premier League home streak to 35 games with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Southampton at the Etihad Stadium. Erling Haaland scored his 14th goal of the season just five minutes into the match, marking the early difference in a lackluster contest against the winless Saints.
City dominated possession and created numerous chances, but struggled to find their best form despite Haaland’s efforts. Southampton’s best moment came late in the first half when Cameron Archer hit the bar, yet Pep Guardiola’s side maintained control throughout the match. While the visitors displayed defensive resilience, City’s victory never appeared to be in jeopardy.
This win propelled City back to the top of the table, and they will have a break from home games until Tottenham visits on November 23. Haaland’s goal helped City maintain their impressive home record, with their last league defeat at the Etihad occurring on November 9, 2022, against Brentford.
Key moments in the match included:
Ruben Dias’ early shot from 30 yards
Haaland’s goal, where he outmuscled Jan Bednarek to turn home Matheus Nunes’ cross
Nunes’ missed chance after cutting inside
Cameron Archer’s shot off the bar
Phil Foden’s narrow miss in the second half
Haaland’s uncharacteristic miss from close range
The victory featured some contentious decisions, including a yellow card for Flynn Downes and Russell Martin, but ultimately, Haaland’s early strike proved to be the decisive factor.
