Manchester City secured a comfortable 2-0 victory over Leeds in a Premier League encounter played at the Etihad Stadium on Thursday night.
The hosts took the lead in the 19th minute when Riyad Mahrez cut inside from the right flank before laying the ball off to Ilkay Gundogan, who fired a first-time shot into the bottom corner to put City ahead.
Gundogan then doubled City’s lead just eight minutes later, calmly slotting home after some excellent build-up play from the home side.
Despite their best efforts, Leeds struggled to create many clear-cut chances in the remainder of the game. However, they did manage to pull a goal back in the 85th minute through Rodrigo, who pounced on a loose ball inside the City penalty area.
But it was too little, too late for the visitors, as City held on to secure a deserved three points and continue their march towards the Premier League title.
The victory sees City move 10 points clear at the top of the table, while Leeds remain in mid-table. City will be hoping to maintain their impressive form in the weeks ahead as they look to wrap up the title and focus on their upcoming Champions League fixtures.
🔴 Live Blog
Goal! Manchester City 2-1 Leeds
Late drama! Ilkay Gundogan misses a penalty, Leeds go down the other end and Rodrigo fires a shot past Ederson
Second half
We are back for the second 45!
Half-time
That’s the half we expected. Many will be pleased it’s only 2-0. Hasn’t been anywhere near enough composure on the out-balls for Leeds to even look like countering consistently
Goal! Manchester City 2-0 Leeds
Gundogan again. Unmarked again. Edge of the box, again.
Goal! Manchester City 1-0 Leeds
Riyad Mahrez cuts in from the right and lays the ball off to Ilkay Gundogan, whose first-time strike nestles into the bottom corner
Kick Off!
And so it begins!
Starting XI
Despite City moving a point above Arsenal with a game in hand, Guardiola insists they are not in a position to make wholesale changes and rest players for their Champions League semi-final against Real.
Ederson returns in goal after Stefan Ortega started against West Ham on Wednesday.
Apex Football News 