Manchester City Extends Winning Streak to 12 with Dominant Victory Over Arsenal

Manchester City extended their incredible winning streak to 12 matches with a commanding 3-1 victory over Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium on Friday evening, further cementing their position at the top of the Premier League table. The Citizens now hold a comfortable 8-point lead over second-place Liverpool with 12 games remaining in what has become an increasingly one-sided title race.

Erling Haaland opened the scoring in the 23rd minute with his 25th league goal of the season, converting a perfectly weighted cross from Kevin De Bruyne with the kind of clinical finishing that has made him the most feared striker in world football. The Norwegian's movement in the box was exemplary, finding space between Arsenal defenders Gabriel and William Saliba before placing his header into the bottom corner.

City doubled their advantage just before halftime through an unlikely source, as defender Joško Gvardiol scored his fifth goal of the campaign with a thunderous strike from 25 yards that left Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya with no chance. The Croatian's celebration in front of the home supporters highlighted the confidence and swagger that has defined City's season-long dominance.

Arsenal briefly threatened a comeback when Bukayo Saka pulled one back in the 67th minute with a trademark curling effort from the edge of the penalty area, sending the traveling supporters into raptures and giving the Gunners hope of salvaging something from their trip to Manchester. However, those hopes were quickly dashed as City responded with typical ruthlessness.

Riyad Mahrez sealed the victory with 15 minutes remaining, capitalizing on a defensive mix-up between Saliba and Raya to slot home his 12th goal of the season. The Algerian winger's composure under pressure exemplified City's mentality, never allowing their opponents to gain any real momentum despite the brief scare.

Pep Guardiola was quick to praise his team's resilience after the match, noting their ability to respond immediately after conceding. "This is what champions do," the Spanish manager said. "We knew Arsenal would have their moments, but our reaction showed the character and quality that has gotten us to this position. Twelve wins in a row doesn't happen by accident."

The victory leaves City well-positioned for what many believe will be their fourth consecutive Premier League title, while Arsenal faces the difficult task of regrouping for their remaining fixtures as they fight to secure Champions League qualification.