Man City Smash Palace to Fire Title Warning, Villa Extend Winning Run

BY favour momodu
December 14, 2025
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Manchester City sent a strong warning to Premier League title rivals with a convincing 3-0 victory over Crystal Palace on Sunday, cutting the gap on leaders Arsenal to two points as Aston Villa continued their impressive run with a comeback win over West Ham.

City, under pressure to respond after Arsenal’s narrow 2-1 victory over Wolves on Saturday, delivered a dominant second-half performance at Selhurst Park to stay firmly in the title race.

Pep Guardiola’s side faced early resistance from an energetic Palace team, who created several promising openings in the first half but failed to capitalise.

City gradually grew into the contest and broke the deadlock shortly before the interval when Erling Haaland rose highest to head home a precise cross and give the visitors the lead.

The goal shifted the momentum in City’s favour, and they took full control after the restart. A composed finish doubled the advantage before a late third goal sealed a comfortable win, extending City’s recent strong run of form.

The result underlined City’s growing confidence as they continue to apply pressure on Arsenal at the top of the table.

At Villa Park, Aston Villa twice came from behind to secure a hard-fought victory over West Ham, maintaining their momentum and reinforcing their push for a strong league finish.

The hosts showed resilience and attacking intent to overturn deficits and claim all three points.

Elsewhere, Nottingham Forest produced a stunning display to dismantle Tottenham Hotspur 3-0, delivering a major blow to Spurs’ top-four ambitions. Forest were clinical throughout and capitalised on defensive lapses to secure a memorable home win.

In the Tyne-Wear derby, Sunderland edged Newcastle United 1-0, with the decisive moment coming from an unfortunate own goal that settled a fiercely contested encounter.

With the title race tightening and European places still fiercely contested, the Premier League continues to deliver high-stakes drama as the season enters a crucial phase.