Erling Haaland was on hand to send Manchester City to the top of the Premier League as his first-half strike sealed a 1-0 win against Southampton.
Haaland had gone three league games without a goal but he quickly reminded everyone of his talent as he overpowered Saints defender Jan Bednarek to turn in a Matheus Nunes delivery.
That was enough to lift Pep Guardiola’s side into first place, two points ahead of second-placed Liverpool, who can regain pole position if they win Sunday’s blockbuster clash with title rivals Arsenal.
“The way Southampton played, they are so demanding. Big credit to them, it was not because we were sloppy or flat. I don’t have that feeling,” Guardiola said.
“We created chances and unfortunately couldn’t score the second. I think we were there and sometimes they are good. We have to accept that.”
Elsewhere, Aston Villa succumbed to a 1-1 draw against Bournemouth at Villa Park, despite dominating the entire game and missing several chances to finish the Cherries off.
Ian Maatsen crossed and Leon Bailey teed up Ross Barkley to hook in his first goal for the club, but Evanilson rescued Bournemouth with a headed equaliser six minutes into stoppage-time.
In more Premier League news, Brentford beat new boys Ipswich 4-3 in a thrilling clash at the GTech Community Stadium.Bryan Mbaumo scored twice to take his tally to 7 goals for the season.
Wolves staged a superb fightback to draw 2-2 against Brighton at the Amex Stadium.
Finally, Everton salvaged a 1-1 draw against Fulham to extend their unbeaten run to six games.
