Wed Feb 26 18:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Haaland’s Heroics Secure City Victory Over Tottenham; Guardiola Downplays “Rebuild” Challenge
**London, England** – Erling Haaland’s 12th-minute goal propelled Manchester City to a narrow 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, returning the champions to the Premier League’s top four. The Norwegian striker, back from injury, reached another milestone, becoming only the second player after Ruud van Nistelrooy to score at least 20 goals in each of his first three Premier League seasons.
City dominated the first half, with Haaland and Jeremy Doku creating several opportunities, but Tottenham rallied in the second, creating chances of their own. A late offside call denied Haaland a second goal, and Tottenham came agonizingly close to equalizing in the dying moments. Despite a less-than-stellar second-half performance, City held on for the win, moving to fourth place with 47 points from 27 games.
Manager Pep Guardiola dismissed suggestions that Manchester City’s current squad rebuild represents the biggest challenge of his career. He praised Haaland’s contribution, highlighting his involvement in the winning goal.
Tottenham, fielding a young starting XI under manager Ange Postecoglou, put up a spirited fight and arguably deserved a better result. Their manager likely had one eye on their upcoming Europa League tie. The loss leaves Tottenham in 13th place with 33 points.
First Piper 