Manchester City Collapse as Feyenoord Stun Them with Late Comeback
Manchester City’s turbulent run continued as they threw away a 3-0 lead against Feyenoord, conceding three goals in the final 15 minutes to settle for a 3-3 draw in the Champions League. The result stretches City’s winless streak to six games across all competitions, piling pressure on manager Pep Guardiola and his players ahead of a crucial Premier League clash with Liverpool.
City Fans Boo, Guardiola Understands Their Frustration
Feyenoord’s David Hancko scored an 89th-minute equalizer, capping a stunning comeback that left City fans booing at the Etihad Stadium. Guardiola admitted the reaction was justified, saying, “People come here not to remember the success of the past. They come here to see the team win and perform well, and we have to do so. They support us all the time. Of course, they are completely right to express what they feel, absolutely.”
City’s defensive collapse means they have now conceded at least two goals in six consecutive matches, a streak they haven’t endured since 1963.
Guardiola Defends Gvardiol Amid Criticism
City’s £77m signing Josko Gvardiol was at fault for Feyenoord’s first goal, which sparked their late surge. However, Guardiola refused to single him out for blame. “He’s so young, he will learn,” said Guardiola. “I would be so wrong if I point at any specific player. The game was fine at 3-0, we were playing good, but then we conceded a lot of goals because we were not stable. We gave them the first and then the other one, that’s why it was difficult.”
Guardiola also acknowledged his team’s fragile state, saying, “We’ve lost a lot of games lately. We’re fragile, and of course, we needed a victory. I don’t know if it’s mental. The first goal cannot happen, and the second as well.”
Tough Test Against Liverpool Looms
City now sit 15th in the Champions League standings and face a daunting trip to Anfield on Sunday. A loss to Liverpool could leave them 11 points behind the league leaders, further jeopardizing their domestic campaign. Guardiola stated, “I have to [lift the players], it’s my job.”
Feyenoord’s Joy and a Nod to Arne Slot
Feyenoord manager Brian Priske was thrilled with his team’s resilience and acknowledged the influence of former Feyenoord boss and Liverpool manager Arne Slot. “I’m sure he’s proud,” said Priske. “He’s following us, I know that. We’ve definitely done everything we could to help him.”
As City’s defensive woes mount, the team must find answers quickly if they are to salvage their season, with both Champions League progression and Premier League contention hanging in the balance.
