MANCHESTER – Manchester City faced no problem to reclaim the throne of English Premier League season 2022/23 by crushing West Ham United 3-0 at Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night.
This make-up game of the EPL matchday 28 ended with an expected result, as the Blue Moons easily slammed the Hammers with goals from Nathan Ake, Erling Haaland and Phil Foden.
The defending champion is now in first place with 79 points, one point ahead of Arsenal, their only competitor for the title, with one game yet to play.
Most media, football fans and commentators predicted Pep Guardiola to retain the trophy, as well as his fifth EPL championship in the last six seasons.
Haaland breaks EPL record
Haaland, who scored the second goal in Wednesday’s match, broke the goal record of a player in a Premier League season in history.
The extraordinary Norwegian has collected 35 league goals so far in his debut season, surpassing Alan Shearer and Andrew Cole who achieved their records during the 42 matches/season era.
The superb number nine is expected to keep updating his record as there are five league matches left.
The 22 years old striker’s unstoppable condition has also given the Cities a great capability to fight for the UEFA Champions League and FA Cup trophies as well this season.
Brighton beat Man United with thrilling end
On Thursday night, Brighton and Hove Albion defeated Manchester United 1-0 in such a breathtaking way.
Both teams were unable to score before the second half’s additional time, although the home team had a few threatful attempts.
The visiting team’s defender Luke Shaw committed a hand ball in the 90+8th minute, giving the Seagulls a late penalty kick and taking the shot by Alexis Mac Allister.
After the dramatic victory, Brighton has risen to sixth place in the EPL standings with 55 points, four points behind Liverpool with two games yet to play.
Liverpool defeated Fulham 1-0 at Anfield on the day before, thanks to a penalty kick from Mohamed Salah to hail five consecutive wins.
Upcoming: EPL Matchday 35
The English Premier League matchday 35 will be continued this Saturday to next Monday.
Manchester City will meet Leeds United at home tomorrow, the Blue Moons expect an easy win to expand their leading advantage, as well as claim the EPL title in advance.
Chelsea will visit Bournemouth on the same day, the struggling Blue Lions desperate to end their six consecutive losses and seek their first victory in the last nine matches.
On Sunday, Arsenal will face a tough battle by challenging Newcastle at St. James Park, in their mission for the title contest.
The Magpies seek to secure third place by staying unbeaten against the Gunners.
Meanwhile, Manchester United aim to strengthen their position in top four by taking West Ham United down in the away game.