## City Reclaim Momentum with Dominant Display Against Wolves
Manchester City emphatically rediscovered their winning touch at the Etihad, securing a crucial 2-0 victory over a resolute Wolves side. This vital result not only snapped a two-game losing streak for the reigning champions but also reignited their pursuit of the Premier League title, narrowing the gap to leaders Arsenal to just four points.
After recent disappointments against Manchester United and Bodo/Glimt, City showcased their intent from the outset. First-half strikes from Omar Marmoush and Antoine Semenyo proved decisive, providing a much-needed lift for Pep Guardiola’s squad. The match also marked a significant milestone for Marc Guehi, who earned his first start for the club.
While Wolves, despite their league position, battled valiantly and even struck the woodwork twice – once through Semenyo’s powerful effort and later via Yerson Mosquera – they ultimately couldn’t breach City’s defence. This victory sets the stage for a tense title race, with Arsenal facing Manchester United on Sunday.
### First-Half Fireworks: Marmoush and Semenyo Strike
Guardiola’s tactical decision to start Omar Marmoush ahead of talisman Erling Haaland at the spearhead of City’s attack paid immediate dividends. Just six minutes into the contest, the Egyptian forward demonstrated his predatory instincts, expertly volleying home the opener following a sublime delivery from Matheus Nunes.
City’s early dominance continued, with Rayan Cherki squandering a golden opportunity to double the lead shortly after, sending his shot sailing over the bar. Marmoush, a constant threat, then rattled the post with another fierce effort. A subsequent VAR review for a potential handball by Yerson Mosquera after the ball ricocheted off his arm ultimately yielded no penalty, much to the relief of the Wolves faithful.
However, City’s relentless pressure soon broke Wolves’ resistance once more. Just before the interval, Antoine Semenyo showcased a moment of individual brilliance. Receiving a clever pass from Cherki, he took a deft touch inside before clinically slotting the ball beyond the goalkeeper. This marked Semenyo’s third goal for the club and his maiden Premier League strike since his significant £65 million transfer from Bournemouth, capping a highly productive first half for the Citizens.
### Sealing the Victory: City Controls Second Half Proceedings
The second half saw Wolves emerge with renewed vigour, desperate to find a way back into the contest. Their most promising opportunity arrived when Joao Gomes unleashed a free-kick that curled over the wall, forcing City’s Gianluigi Donnarumma into a full-stretch save that saw the ball narrowly whistle past the post.
Jorgen Strand Larsen then added to the visitors’ pressure, flashing a dangerous shot across goal. Recognizing the shift in momentum, Guardiola responded by introducing the formidable duo of Erling Haaland and Jeremy Doku, injecting fresh impetus into City’s attack and shoring up their control.
Semenyo, buoyed by his earlier goal, was inches away from securing a brace and putting the game beyond doubt. A fierce drive from a Phil Foden pass cannoned off the woodwork, denying him a second memorable strike. As the clock wound down, Wolves refused to surrender. In the dying moments, Mosquera’s header from an inswinging corner glanced off the crossbar, briefly threatening a dramatic late twist before sailing harmlessly over.
Ultimately, Manchester City expertly managed the remainder of the game, seeing out the 2-0 victory with professional composure. The win not only provides a much-needed confidence boost but also sends a clear message to their title rivals, confirming their determination to fight for every point in this thrilling Premier League campaign.