Manchester City close two points behind leaders Arsenal while Erling Haaland’s penalty puts pressure on Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira

Manchester City increased the pressure on Premier League title rivals Arsenal by securing a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace on Saturday night.

Pep Guardiola’s side went into action at Selhurst Park knowing that a win would leave them just two points behind leaders Arsenal.

City looked like they were headed for a frustrating stalemate until a moment of insanity from Michael Olise saw him pit Ilkay Gundogan.

The former Readinger reacted impulsively after the German midfielder picked up the ball from a corner, with Erling Haaland making no mistake from the point.

He sent Vicente Guaita the wrong way as he slotted his free kick into the bottom left corner to spark wild celebrations from the Citizens team.

That performance earned the Norwegian striker 34 goals this season, a staggering tally of just 35 games in all competitions.

For Arsenal, the late goal will have been a warning not to take your foot off the accelerator.

Mikel Arteta’s side meet Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday and are now under pressure to secure a win to restore the five-point lead.

Meanwhile, the result may not be good news for former City man Patrick Vieira.

The Palace boss is under pressure at Selhurst Park as management fear the Eagles could be drawn into a relegation battle.

Loss to City means they sit 12th on 27 points, four from the bottom three.

Palace have won just six top division games all season, with the club not winning a league since New Year’s Eve.