Sharjah24: Manchester City dropped two valuable points in their battle with Arsenal for the Premier League title after being held to a goalless draw by hosts Sunderland in the closing match of round 19.
League standings and streaks
City moved up to 41 points in second place, four points behind leaders Arsenal on 45, bringing their winning run in all competitions to an end at eight matches. Sunderland, meanwhile, maintained their impressive home record, extending their unbeaten league run at the Stadium of Light to nine matches, despite the absence of six players due to their participation in the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Sunderland raised their tally to 29 points in seventh place.
Disallowed goal and missed chances
City applied early pressure and thought they had taken the lead through Bernardo Silva, who followed up a header from Erling Haaland after a corner, but the goal was ruled out for offside following a VAR review. Sunderland nearly scored through Brian Brobbey, but Gianluigi Donnarumma made a fine save. Both goalkeepers, Robin Roefs and Donnarumma, produced several key stops as chances were missed at both ends.
Second-half changes
Pep Guardiola introduced Rodri early in the second half, marking his first appearance since early November. City continued to press but failed to find a breakthrough.
Liverpool also held
Elsewhere, Liverpool’s winning streak in all competitions ended at four matches after a disappointing goalless draw against Leeds United at Anfield.
For an optimal experience, please
