Three additional Premier League fixtures unfolded this afternoon, intensifying the competition for the league title, the battle for survival, and the pursuit of European qualification.
Nottingham Forest found themselves lamenting missed opportunities as Manchester City secured a 2-0 victory at the City Ground, narrowing the gap to Arsenal to just one point, with a game in hand.
Forest kicked off brightly, with an early chance created within the opening 30 seconds. Despite Neco Williams finding himself unmarked in the box, he failed to connect strongly with the ball.
As expected, City gradually asserted their dominance, controlling possession. Kevin De Bruyne had the first notable chance, narrowly missing the target after a slick pass from Rodri.
Despite Forest’s promising start, City took the lead against the run of play just after the half-hour mark. Joško Gvardiol capitalized on De Bruyne’s corner, netting his third goal for the club, all in April.
Forest faced adversity as Williams was injured prior to the corner, reducing them to 10 men momentarily.
Chris Wood squandered a prime opportunity to equalize, failing to convert when the ball fell to him with the goal in sight.
Shortly after, Murillo missed an even clearer chance, lifting the ball over the bar from close range after Ederson’s error.
Despite Forest’s persistent threats, City remained dangerous on the attack. Julián Álvarez had a golden chance but fired over under pressure from Forest’s defense.
There were injury concerns as Jack Grealish appeared to suffer a knee injury, though his replacement, Erling Haaland, made a successful return.
De Bruyne continued to shine, testing Matz Sels with a fine effort, before setting up Haaland for City’s second goal.
Forest pushed for a comeback, with Anthony Elanga testing substitute keeper Stefan Ortega with a long-range strike. However, their efforts fell short as relegation fears heightened and City maintained their march towards another title.
