Manchester City’s aspirations for a fifth consecutive Premier League title took a hit as they let a 2-0 lead slip in a dramatic 2-2 draw against Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Despite controlling large portions of the match and showcasing their attacking brilliance through Phil Foden, who scored twice, City was undone by Brentford’s late heroics. Yoane Wissa pulled one back in the 78th minute, and Christian Norgaard's 92nd-minute header ensured the Bees snatched a valuable point.
Match Recap
City opened the scoring in the 66th minute, with Foden expertly volleying home Kevin De Bruyne’s sublime cross. Brentford nearly equalized moments later, but Nathan Ake’s goal line clearance denied Wissa.
Foden doubled the lead in the 78th minute, capitalizing on Mark Flekken's parry of Savinho’s strike. At that point, City seemed set for victory.
However, Brentford’s resilience shone through. Wissa’s close-range finish reignited hope for the home side, making him Brentford’s all-time top scorer in the Premier League. The drama reached its peak in stoppage time when Norgaard’s powerful header past Stefan Ortega completed the comeback.
Brentford nearly clinched a sensational victory, but Ake’s last-ditch clearance denied Bryan Mbeumo’s curled effort in the dying moments.
Guardiola’s Reaction
City manager Pep Guardiola expressed disappointment at the missed opportunity but also reflected on the legacy of Tony Book, the late Manchester City legend, after whom the team wanted to dedicate the win.
"He had a long life, an incredible life, and this is what this club is built on," said Guardiola.
Missed Opportunities for City
City’s lack of clinical finishing proved costly, with chances to restore their two-goal cushion going begging. Savinho hit the post early in the second half, while Erling Haaland and James McAtee also failed to convert key opportunities.
The absence of Kyle Walker, amid reports of his potential departure, added to City’s challenges. Ortega, preferred in goal over Ederson, made several crucial saves but could not prevent Brentford’s late surge.
Thomas Frank’s Delight
Brentford manager Thomas Frank praised his side's performance:
"We went toe-to-toe with one of the best teams in the world... It was a well-deserved point."
What’s Next?
City remains sixth, 12 points behind leaders Liverpool, who were held to a 1-1 draw by Nottingham Forest. Brentford moved up to 10th, leapfrogging Brighton on goal difference.
Looking ahead:
Brentford hosts Liverpool on Saturday in what promises to be another stern test.
Manchester City will aim to bounce back against relegation-threatened Ipswich Town on Sunday.
The result underscores both Brentford’s fighting spirit and City’s current vulnerability, adding intrigue to the Premier League title race.
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