Santi Cazorla and Olivier Giroud were on target as Arsenal won 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium to strike a blow to Manchester City’s Premier League title hopes.
Much had been made of Arsenal’s inability to beat the big clubs in the top flight ahead of Sunday’s encounter, but Arsene Wenger’s side proved they are no soft touch with an impressive display to consign City to a first defeat in 15 games.
Cazorla opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the first half after returning City captain Vincent Kompany was adjudged to have blocked off Nacho Monreal.
City, who also welcomed leading scorer Sergio Aguero back into the starting line-up, were devoid of ideas going forward in the first half but were far more threatening after the break.
The defending champions were unable to pull off a fightback, though, and there was no way back when Cazorla turned provider with a free-kick that was headed home by Giroud.
Defeat for City was their second at home in the league this season and a first loss since back in November ensured Manuel Pellegrini’s side remain five points behind leaders Chelsea, with the two teams set to face each other next in the Premier League.
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