LEICESTER, England (AP) — Erling Haaland and Savinho scored to give Manchester City a 2-0 victory over Leicester Saturday, marking Pep Guardiola’s 500th game in charge with the club’s second win in 14 matches.
Savinho opened the scoring in the 21st minute, pouncing on a rebound after Leicester goalkeeper Jakub Stolarczyk failed to control Phil Foden’s initial shot. Haaland sealed the win in the 74th minute, heading in Savinho’s cross following a build-up orchestrated by substitute James McAtee.
“We needed this result to build confidence,” Guardiola said. “The team showed character despite our recent struggles.”
Leicester, under Ruud van Nistelrooy’s management, repeatedly threatened City’s goal. Jamie Vardy, approaching his 38th birthday, hit the crossbar from Stephy Mavididi’s cross and forced a crucial save from Stefan Ortega after capitalizing on Josko Gvardiol’s error.
City’s defense showed continuing vulnerabilities, with Ortega’s foul on Vardy saved by an offside flag and Gvardiol’s under-hit backpass highlighting persistent issues. Kevin De Bruyne, returning to the starting lineup, also had uncharacteristically shaky moments in defensive situations.
Facundo Buonanotte came closest for Leicester, hitting the post twice, while Bilal El Khannouss created several dangerous opportunities with precise crosses. Despite their spirited performance, Leicester couldn’t convert their chances into goals.
The victory, though not convincing, offers City hope of regaining their dominant form as they pursue another Premier League title. Haaland’s return to scoring form particularly encouraged the away supporters, who chanted “City are back” as the match concluded.
“We can build on this performance,” Haaland said. “It wasn’t perfect, but we showed fighting spirit and took our chances when they came.”
The result moves City closer to the top of the Premier League table, though defensive concerns remain as they head into the new year. Guardiola acknowledged the need for improvement but emphasized the importance of securing three points.
“Five hundred games with this club is special,” Guardiola added. “Getting a clean sheet and an away win makes it even more memorable.”
