Manchester City thrash Crystal Palace in Premier League comeback

Champions League race heats up

The victory lifts City to fourth place with 55 points, ahead of both Chelsea and Newcastle (53 points each), though Newcastle still have two games in hand. The increased number of Champions League spots for the Premier League—now "at least" five—gives Pep Guardiola’s side renewed hope of securing continental football next season.

Crystal Palace remain 11th in the table with 43 points.

Scoring summary

Crystal Palace stunned City early with goals from Eberechi Eze (8') and Chris Richards (21'), but the hosts responded with a barrage of goals:

Kevin De Bruyne (33')

Omar Marmoush (36')

Mateo Kovacic (47')

James McAtee (56')

Nico O’Reilly (79')

Back on track

The win marks a strong response from Manchester City after a goalless draw against Manchester United in the previous round.