Following three games without a victory in the league and in Europe, the Argentine defender was on the scoresheet as Pep Guardiola’s men claimed three points against the Hornets. David Silva sealed the win late on.
The Blues’ last triumph at the Etihad Stadium arrived 1 November in the Champions League against Barcelona and Zabaleta admitted it had been a frustrating period on home soil.
“It had been a long time without a win, playing at home,” he reflected. “It has been strange.
“It was not the prettiest game but we had determination to win the game.
“We had the clean sheet we’ve been talking about and were solid defensively. We were really good at the back and we took our chances. We deserved to win.”
Zabaleta opened the scoring, volleying home Kevin De Bruyne’s cross at the backpost. The celebration portrayed his delight, and the defender was happy to talk about the strike.
“As a full-back you go into a game thinking you have to defend, but when you have the chance to go forward - especially at the far post and attack the space - it is good,” Zabaleta reflected.
“It was a great cross from Kevin De Bruyne and a good finish for a full-back!”
Zabaleta, who again skippered the Blues, was also pleased to see City restore their confidence with both three points an a clean sheet.
“It was an important win to get confidence back. We play Arsenal at the weekend and it will be a huge game,” he added.
“We have to keep winning. We have a lot of important games in December and we have to keep up with Chelsea.
“The team showed spirit to win.”
