Manchester City reclaimed the top spot in the Premier League after a dramatic 2-2 draw against Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium, with a late equalizer rescuing the champions in stoppage time.
Erling Haaland marked a milestone early on, netting his 100th goal for City with a surging run and clinical finish, putting Pep Guardiola’s side ahead in the first half.
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However, City’s momentum faltered soon after, as key midfielder Rodri was forced off with a suspected knee injury, replaced by Mateo Kovačić.
Arsenal wasted no time capitalising on the disruption, leveling the score minutes later. A quickly-taken free-kick set up Riccardo Calafiori, who unleashed a powerful strike to bring the Gunners back into the contest.
Both teams created opportunities to retake the lead before the break. City’s Jérémy Doku came close with a shot that flashed just wide, while Arsenal’s Leandro Trossard sent a chance over the bar.
It was Arsenal who struck again just before half-time.
Defender Gabriel rose highest to meet Bukayo Saka’s corner, powering a header into the far post to send the Gunners into the interval with a 2-1 advantage.
The second half saw City push hard for an equalizer, especially after Arsenal were reduced to 10 men.
Trossard, frustrated after charging into Bernardo Silva, was shown a second yellow card for kicking the ball away in stoppage time, leaving Arsenal to defend their slender lead with a man down.
City piled on the pressure in the dying moments, with Rúben Dias, Kyle Walker, and Manuel Akanji all testing Arsenal’s defense.
However, it wasn’t until the 98th minute that City found their breakthrough. Substitute John Stones pounced on a loose ball after a scramble in the box, slotting home to secure a last-gasp point for the champions.
The result sees Manchester City return to the summit of the Premier League.