Erling Haaland made a triumphant return from injury as Manchester City secured a 2-0 victory over Nottingham Forest in the Premier League clash on Sunday.
Having sat out the previous two matches due to injury, Haaland was named as a substitute for City’s visit to the City Ground. However, it didn’t take long for the prolific striker to make his mark, netting a clinical goal just nine minutes after stepping onto the pitch.
The win allowed second-placed City to narrow the gap on league leaders Arsenal to just one point, with Arsenal having secured a 3-2 victory over Tottenham earlier in the day.
Haaland’s goal propelled him to the top of the league’s scoring charts, surpassing Chelsea’s Cole Palmer with 21 goals for the season.
City, with a game in hand over Arsenal, stands poised to clinch their fourth consecutive title if they win their remaining four fixtures. Such a feat would mark their sixth title in seven years, highlighting their nearly unchallenged domestic dominance.
The breakthrough for City came in the 32nd minute courtesy of Josk Gvardiol’s headed effort from Kevin De Bruyne’s corner kick.
Despite Forest having opportunities to level the game, including Chris Wood’s missed chances from close range, Haaland ultimately put the result beyond doubt with another well-taken goal, with De Bruyne providing the assist once more.
However, City’s joy was slightly tempered by an injury to goalkeeper Ederson, who was forced off at halftime due to a shoulder concern.
