(Getty)
Second in the table is on the line, when City and Arsenal clash at the Emirates. City will see the return of one of it’s top stars, while Arsenal hopes its own goal-scorer will continue his run of good form.
Olivier Giroud has been carrying Arsenal on the offensive end, scoring five goals in his last three games. His hat-trick rescued Arsenal from Champions League elimination, and Arsenal has won three straight.
City would like similar production from Sergio Aguero, who may return to the lineup today. Aguero has seven goals to Giroud’s nine this BPL campaign, but has missed four straight matches dealing with a heel injury.
Even if Aguero is ready to return, City is missing several key players. One of them is Samir Nasri, the former Arsenal player who won’t return until 2016 with a hamstring injury. Midfielder Fernando and captain Vincent Kompany will also be unavailable for today’s match.
It hasn’t always had title implications, but this will be the 186th all-time meeting between these teams. Arsenal leads the matchup with 94 wins, and City has some catching up to do with only 49 wins.
Check here after kickoff, for live scoring updates and goal highlights below:
Final:
Arsenal 2, City, 1
City had chances in stoppage time, but it was too little too late. Arsenal take the points, and they’re now just two points behind Leicester in the table.
Arsenal next match: Saturday at Southampton
Manchester City next match: Saturday vs. Sunderland
81′:
Arsenal 2, City, 1
GOAL! Arsenal have been in control for most of the second half, but City have got one back with less than ten minutes remaining. A beautfiul goal from Toure, who passes a ball effortlessly into the top corner.
45′ (Stoppage time):
Arsenal 2, City, 0
GOAL! Olivier Giroud strikes again. Arsenal with a prefect counterattack, and Ozil sent the final ball into Giroud, who fired a low shot under Joe Hart’s legs. It’s a devastating blow for City just before halftime.
33′:
Arsenal 1, City, 0
GOAL! Arsenal’s first shot of the game is a beauty from Theo Walcott, who sends a beautiful shot from the edge of the penalty area past Joe Hart on the far post.
30′:
Arsenal 0, City, 0
30 minutes in and City’s Kevin De Bruyne is getting closer and closer. He’s ripped several low shots on goal, but so far has only yielded one highlight:
Kickoff:
Arsenal 0, City, 0
We’re underway. Be sure to check here for today’s lineups and here to find out how you can stream this match online.
