After beating Newcastle, Man City 'breathes down' Arsenal's neck

Football results - Nico O'Reilly's two goals helped Man City defeat Newcastle in the 27th round of the Premier League, narrowing the gap behind Arsenal at the summit.

The match between Man City and Newcastle kicked off at a high tempo from the start. The home team quickly applied pressure with a series of consecutive corners, forcing Newcastle's defense to work hard. After missing several chances, Man City broke the deadlock in the 14th minute. From a pass that split the defense, Nico O'Reilly sprinted forward and finished sharply into the left corner, leaving the goalkeeper no chance.

Newcastle responded swiftly. In the 22nd minute, Lewis Hall unleashed a shot from the edge of the box that deflected off a player, wrong-footing Gianluigi Donnarumma and leveling the score. The game then turned into an exciting back-and-forth. Anthony Gordon and Joe Willock had opportunities but failed to convert, while Erling Haaland also missed a clear chance near the end of the first half.

The turning point came in the 27th minute. Haaland broke free down the right flank and delivered a precise cross for Nico O'Reilly to head in close range, completing his brace and restoring Man City's lead. The rest of the first half saw intense physical battles and yellow cards issued to players from both sides.

In the second half, the visitors pushed forward seeking an equalizer. Joelinton, Harvey Barnes, and Lewis Hall all had notable attempts but were either off target or stopped by Donnarumma and City's defense. On the other side, Phil Foden, who came on late, had a chance but could not beat Nick Pope.

Despite their efforts in stoppage time, Newcastle failed to change the outcome. Man City held on to a 2-1 win after a tense and emotional 90 minutes.

This victory reduces Pep Guardiola's team's gap to Arsenal to just two points, increasing pressure on the London side ahead of their big clash with Tottenham.