In the 23rd minute, Manchester City striker Riyad Mahrez opened the scoring with a direct free kick. The Algerian sent the ball into the top corner near Arrizabalaga's goal, who sent it over the wall. Earlier, on January 5, the two teams met in a match of the 19th day of the English Premier League. Manchester City won 1-0. The only goal of the match was scored by striker Riyad Mahrez, assisted by Jack Grealish.
The game was tight, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances in the early exchanges. Manchester City had the majority of possession, but Brentford defended resolutely and were dangerous on the counter-attack.
The breakthrough came in the 23rd minute when Mahrez was brought down on the edge of the box. He dusted himself off and curled a superb free-kick over the wall and into the top corner, leaving Arrizabalaga in the Brentford goal with no chance. In the second half, Brentford tried to equalise but the Manchester City defence, masterfully led by Ruben Dias and Aymeric Laporte, held firm. Mahrez almost scored a second goal late on but his effort was pushed away by the post.
In the end, the three points were crucial for Manchester City as they looked to keep pace with Arsenal at the top of the Premier League table. Brentford can take heart from their performance but will be disappointed not to have taken anything away from the game.
Mahrez's winning contribution was further proof of his importance to Pep Guardiola's side. The Algeria international has been in fine form this season, scoring goals and providing crucial assists as City look to defend their title.
The result leaves Manchester City in second place in the table, three points behind leaders Arsenal, who have a game in hand. Brentford, meanwhile, remain in 10th place, just a few points off the European places. Both managers will now focus on their respective midweek fixtures. Manchester City host Wolverhampton Wanderers, while Brentford host Southampton at the Brentford Community Stadium.
The end of the season promises to be an exciting one, with the title race, European qualification and relegation battle still to be determined. Manchester City will be hoping Mahrez's exploits can prove decisive in their quest for a third Premier League title in four years.
