.jfif)
No Haaland? No problem. On Saturday, February 28, 2026, Manchester City proved their title credentials with a gritty, hard-fought 1–0 victory over Leeds United at a hostile Elland Road. With Erling Haaland ruled out due to a training ground injury, January signing Antoine Semenyo proved to be the hero, keeping City’s hunt for a seventh title under Pep Guardiola firmly on track.
The win moves City to within two points of leaders Arsenal, who face Chelsea later today.
The Match Timeline: Precision over Pressure
13',Ramadan Break 🌙,Play halted for Muslim players to break their fast; met with controversy in the stands.
39',Huge Save! 🧤,Gianluigi Donnarumma denies Brenden Aaronson in a 1v1 to keep City level.
45+2',GOAL! ⚽️,Antoine Semenyo slides home a pinpoint Rayan Aït-Nouri cross after a sublime Rayan Cherki pass.
72',Big Save! 🧤,Karl Darlow produces a world-class stop to deny a Marc Guéhi header.
90+6',Full Time 🏁,City hold on for their fourth successive league win.
Key Takeaways: The "Haaland-Less" Heroics
Semenyo’s Surge: Antoine Semenyo has now scored six goals since joining from Bournemouth in January. His ability to lead the line in Haaland's absence has been the "saving grace" for Pep's attacking rotations.
The Donnarumma Wall: While Semenyo gets the headlines, City owe the points to Donnarumma. His first-half save against Aaronson was a turning point in a match where Leeds were arguably the better side for long periods.
Doku's Return: Although he didn't get off the bench, Jeremy Doku was named in the matchday squad for the first time since January, a massive boost ahead of the Champions League clash with Real Madrid.
Ramadan Controversy: Pep Guardiola condemned the audible jeers during the 13th-minute break for Muslim players to break their fast, calling for more "respect and education" in the game.
The Verdict: This wasn't the "thousand million passes" City we usually see, but it was a professional, championship-winning performance. Leeds were resilient, but City’s individual quality at both ends of the pitch proved the difference.