Kevin De Bruyne reaches century of Manchester City goals as he inspires win over Palace

Manchester City kept the heat on their title rivals and Kevin de Bruyne struck his 100th goal for the club in a 4-2 victory over Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Both the Belgian midfielder and striker Erling Haaland had been doubts for the lunchtime kick-off at Selhurst Park, where Jean-Philippe Mateta gave the hosts a flying start as he fired them in front after just three minutes.

De Bruyne pulled his side level moments later in spectacular fashion, and City took the lead for the first time less than two minutes into the second half via Rico Lewis’ second Premier League goal before De Bruyne set up Haaland for City’s third. De Bruyne then added a fourth with a solo effort to make it a century of goals for City in the 70th minute.

Palace substitute Odsonne Edouard clawed one back but City were clear and deserved winners.

Boss Pep Guardiola could be seen blowing kisses to De Bruyne from the touchline and was keen to praise the inspirational midfielder after the game.

"In the first half we did mistakes but we made a comeback and Kevin de Bruyne won the game with his actions, his assists, his goals and everything. We won the game with him," said the Catalan coach.

"I didn't know that [De Bruyne] enjoyed scoring goals more than assists but I keep pushing him to say we have to win games. He has won many games for us, no doubt. It was really good for his performance."

There was also praise for academy graduates Lewis and Oscar Bobb who dovetailed effectively down City's left flank.

"Manuel Akanji pushes a lot and is unbelievable playing at left-back. He is an incredible player. Rico Lewis and Oscar Bobb were really good on that side in the first half. We wanted to score early in the second half and then we could close the