Man City beat Palace to close gap with Arsenal to 2, with two games to play | Football News
Manchester City Advances with 3-0 Win Over Crystal Palace
Published May 13, 2026
Manchester City secured a decisive victory over Crystal Palace on Wednesday, defeating the visiting team 3-0 at the Etihad Stadium. The win narrows Arsenal’s lead in the Premier League to just two points as the season approaches its final stretch.
Manager Pep Guardiola made six changes to the lineup that defeated Brentford 3-0 on Sunday, resting key players including Erling Haaland and Jeremy Doku. Palace’s Oliver Glasner also opted for adjustments in his squad.
City established control early in the match with two goals in the first half. Antoine Semenyo opened the scoring in the 32nd minute, finishing coolly after Phil Foden delivered an impressive back pass. Just eight minutes later, Foden assisted again as Omar Marmoush doubled the lead, marking his third goal of the season.
In the latter stages of the match, substitute Savinho added a third goal, running the length of the field before beating Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson. The win boosts City’s points tally to 77, putting them just two points behind Arsenal, while City boasts a superior goal difference and has scored seven more goals than their rivals.
Despite the gap closing, Arsenal remains in a favorable position to win their first Premier League title since 2004. The Gunners will face relegated Burnley on Monday, and City is set to play Bournemouth the following day. If Arsenal secures a win, City must triumph against Bournemouth to maintain pressure in the title race.
City will also be competing in the FA Cup final against Chelsea at Wembley on Saturday, seeking to add a domestic cup double to their season’s achievements after winning the League Cup earlier.
Before the match, Guardiola explained his strategic changes, stating, “When the schedule is so tight, everybody is fit; everybody needs to help.”
Phil Foden emphasized the importance of teamwork in pursuit of the title. “It’s a team game at the end of the day. If you want to win titles and trophies, it’s about a full squad and everyone playing their part,” he told Sky Sports.
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace’s focus shifts towards the UEFA Conference League final against Rayo Vallecano in Leipzig on May 27, marking Glasner’s last match at the helm of the club.
