Erling Haaland scored his eleventh Premier League goal of the season, but Southampton is still without a victory.
Erling Haaland scored his eleventh Premier League goal of the season, but Southampton is still without a victory.
Manchester City defeated Southampton 1-0 to take the lead in the Premier League thanks to a goal from Erling Haaland in the first half.
Russell Martin's team dug in under relentless pressure, and although the striker's goal after just five minutes gave the winless Saints hope for a bleak afternoon, it was the last goal scored.
Saints were able to exert pressure on City in stoppage time due to Haaland's wastefulness, as he had two attempts saved off the line and missed a close-range chance. However, they were unable to find a spectacular equaliser.
With the victory, City's league winning streak at the Etihad Stadium now stands at 35 games since they lost to Brentford over two years ago. Saints had their moments, but Pep Guardiola's team displayed their typical control.
In attacking areas, a Saints team with just one point did appear tame despite some strong possession and plenty of admirable defensive tenacity.
Late in the first half, Cameron Archer struck the bar, giving the visitors their only real opportunity.
Martin: We'll be alright if we play this way.
Russell Martin, Southampton's manager:
"I'm really pleased with the players. Although I dislike losing, I stated that I wanted to make sure we were proud if we did lose.
"We were unable to capitalise on the critical moments, but we damaged them somewhat. There isn't much more I could want. away from the nation's top team's home field. We'll be alright if we play with that much bravery and aggression.
"It was the best ball-playing performance in a long time. We didn't defend as much as we did against Arsenal because of the moments we had.
"We had some really amazing build-up play. We will learn a great deal from today, both strategically and emotionally. They ought to be quite proud of what we accomplished.