Manchester City maintained the heat on Premier League leaders Arsenal with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Leeds United at Elland Road, marking their sixth consecutive win against the Whites.

Despite City’s greater need for points, it was Leeds who started the brighter, creating early chances. Dominic Calvert-Lewin had two clear opportunities but squandered both, first mishitting Brenden Aaronson’s cross and then dragging another effort just wide of the post. Aaronson himself went close when his flicked attempt was heroically blocked by Marc Guehi.

City struggled to create until the 39th minute, when Karl Darlow was forced into action, saving a close-range header from Nico O’Reilly.

The breakthrough finally came just before half-time, somewhat against the run of play. Antoine Semenyo found space in the box and slotted home Rayan Ait-Nouri’s cross in first-half stoppage time, giving City a crucial lead.

Leeds responded strongly after the break, again leaning on Calvert-Lewin, who was denied by a last-ditch Matheus Nunes block. City had opportunities to extend their lead, notably when Ruben Dias’ miscued strike fell to Omar Marmoush, who could only push the ball wide. Leeds came close late as well, with Guehi’s header cleared off the line by Darlow, prompting manager Daniel Farke to make an attacking double substitution.

Despite the late pressure, Leeds could not find an equaliser, and City held on for a narrow win.

The victory brings Manchester City within two points of Arsenal at the top of the Premier League, while Leeds remain six points clear of the relegation zone.