Erling Haaland struck early and decisively as Manchester City eked out a 1-0 victory at Brentford, extending their unbeaten run and sending a clear message in the Premier League title race .
The Norwegian forward eked the match winner in the 9th minute, muscling past defenders before placing a precise finish past Brentford’s goalkeeper. That goal marked Haaland’s ninth in the Premier League this season, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most clinical forwards in the division.
City largely controlled the early tempo. A long pass from Joško Gvardiol put Brentford’s defense under pressure, and Haaland capitalised swiftly. Despite dominance, the hosts failed to test the City defense meaningfully in the first half.
However, the match was not without concern for the visitors. Key midfielder Rodri was forced off with a suspected hamstring injury in the first half, after appearing to pull up unchallenged. He had only recently been working his way back from knee issues, making this setback particularly unwelcome.
After the break, Brentford came alive. They fashioned moments of danger, most notably when Igor Thiago broke through one-on-one with City’s defense, only for Gianluigi Donnarumma to block the attempt. The hosts increasingly tested the City backline, putting pressure especially via aerial balls into the box.
In the dying minutes the home side pushed desperately for an equaliser, but City held firm. A late scramble nearly saw Donnarumma’s clearance deflected in by Kevin Schade, but the rebound drifted wide of the post. Ultimately, the narrow scoreline held, despite Brentford’s fightback.
