A double from Erling Haaland proved decisive for the champions Manchester City to beat Brighton at home (3-1), in the 13th round of the Premier League, and to get closer, on condition, to the isolated leader Arsenal.
At the Etihad Stadium, in Manchester, with the Portuguese João Cancelo, Rúben Dias and Bernardo Silva at the start, the citizens returned to triumphs thanks to yet another remarkable display by the former Dortmund player, who opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, after an assist of the goalkeeper Ederson, increasing the penalty advantage, at 43.
In the second half, Belgian Leandro Trossard (53) shortened distances for the visitors, but compatriot Kevin De Bruyne, in a great shot from outside the area, left City comfortable again in the match, after being served by Bernardo Silva, at 75 .
Thus, the team led by Pep Guardiola now has 26 points, being one of the lead of the Gunners, who on Sunday visit Southampton.
Tottenham, Sporting’s next opponents in Group D of the Champions League, are third, with 23, and, if they win against Newcastle, they will stick with City again.