Manchester City defeated Newcastle United 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium on February 21, 2026. The victory reduced Arsenal’s lead in the Premier League to two points. Nico O’Reilly scored both goals for City in the first half. Additionally the result extended City’s unbeaten league run to five matches.
Goal Highlights
O’Reilly opened the scoring in the 14th minute. Omar Marmoush assisted him after dispossessing Dan Burn. O’Reilly fired a left-footed shot past Nick Pope. Lewis Hall equalized for Newcastle in the 22nd minute.
His 20-yard effort deflected off Rayan Ait-Nouri and beat Gianluigi Donnarumma. However O’Reilly restored City’s lead in the 27th minute. Erling Haaland crossed the ball, and O’Reilly headed it home.
Key Events
City dominated the first half with high intensity play. Anthony Gordon tested Donnarumma with a low shot. Newcastle countered but failed to create clear chances.
In the second half, Hall curled a free-kick wide. Semenyo shot off target after a burst forward. Substitutes included Phil Foden for City and Harvey Barnes for Newcastle. Furthermore, Pope saved late efforts from Haaland and Foden.
Player Performances
O’Reilly excelled as City’s midfielder. He scored twice and threatened throughout the game. Haaland provided his seventh assist of the season. Meanwhile Hall performed well for Newcastle. He scored and created opportunities. Gordon broke forward multiple times.
Managerial Reactions
Eddie Howe, Newcastle United manager, spoke to TNT Sports. He stated, “We’re disappointed with the two goals we conceded. We chased the game well in the second half and we were in it right until the end with Harvey Barnes’ shot right until the end.”
O’Reilly commented to TNT Sports. He said, “I’m over the moon with tonight. The win was the most important thing to close the gap and apply as much pressure as possible.”
