Manchester City kept the pressure on Premier League leaders Arsenal with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Brentford at the Etihad Stadium. Jérémy Doku broke the deadlock on the hour mark with a stunning solo effort before Erling Haaland sealed the win late on.
City struggled for fluency in the first half, missing the control of Rodri, and were fortunate not to fall behind. Brentford created several chances, with Gianluigi Donnarumma making key saves to keep the scores level. Pep Guardiola made a double substitution on 59 minutes, bringing on Phil Foden and Omar Marmoush, and the change paid immediate dividends.
From a corner, Bernardo Silva played the ball short to Doku, who cut inside and curled a superb shot beyond Caoimhín Kelleher into the far corner. The Belgian dedicated the goal to his father, David, on his 60th birthday. Haaland then made the game safe, bundling home from close range after a goalmouth scramble.
The win moves City to within two points of Arsenal, who have a game in hand. Guardiola jokingly appealed to West Ham to do his side a favour in their upcoming match against the Gunners. 'Come on you Irons,' he said, crossing his arms to mimic the club's badge.
