Late Goals Deny City Victory, Leaving Guardiola Frustrated with Final Third Decisions
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola expressed frustration after his team threw away a two-goal lead to settle for a 2-2 draw against Brentford. Despite a brace from Phil Foden in the second half, late strikes by Yoane Wissa and Christian Norgaard spoiled the night for City and their traveling fans.
The result leaves the defending champions in sixth place, continuing their battle for a top-four finish in the Premier League.
Wasteful Finishing Proves Costly
Guardiola attributed the dropped points to poor decision-making in the final third rather than individual defensive mistakes. Several opportunities to seal the win went untaken, a factor the manager highlighted in his post-match analysis.
“We didn’t manage well at 2-0, but at 2-1, we controlled the game better,” Guardiola said. “What I missed today was the right decisions in the final third. Players like James McAtee, Savinho, and Phil Foden had chances to finish or make a better pass, but we didn’t capitalize.”
Guardiola emphasized the importance of composure, particularly when Erling Haaland found himself in promising positions but failed to convert.
Credit to Brentford
Guardiola also acknowledged the quality of Brentford’s strikers and their resilience. “Their forwards are really good, and they took their chances. Brentford is always a tough opponent, both here and at our place,” he said. “They are an honest, hardworking team, and I give them credit for the result.”
Looking Ahead
Despite the disappointment, Guardiola defended his team’s effort, pointing to fatigue as a natural factor in the closing stages. “Fatigue is normal, especially against a team like Brentford,” he said. “But I have no regrets. The players were really good. Now we move on to the next game.”
City fans will hope the team can bounce back as they continue to push for a stronger league position amid mounting competition for a top-four spot.
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