Pep Guardiola has insisted Manchester City will continue their Premier League title push despite being held to a 2-2 draw by Tottenham in north London on Sunday.
The Citizens appeared in control after racing into a two-goal lead through first-half strikes from Rayan Cherki and Antoine Semenyo. However, Guardiola’s side faltered after the break as Tottenham mounted a stirring comeback.
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Dominic Solanke pulled one back for Spurs in controversial fashion, bundling the ball home after contact with City defender Marc Guehi. VAR reviewed the incident but allowed the goal to stand, much to Guardiola’s frustration.
City were unable to regain control as Tottenham’s pressure intensified, and Solanke completed the fightback with a stunning scorpion-kick equaliser from Conor Gallagher’s cross.
The draw was a major blow to second-placed City, who now trail leaders Arsenal by six points after the Gunners’ emphatic 4-0 win at Leeds on Saturday.
Guardiola was booked for protesting the decision that led to Tottenham’s first goal and later criticised the officiating.
“If a central defender does it to a striker, it’s a penalty,” he said. “The game was well played, but the first goal changed everything. After that, the momentum was difficult to control.”
Despite City winning just one of their last six league matches, Guardiola remains confident his side can still reel in Arsenal.
“With 14 games to play, the chance is there, and the hope will always be there,” he said. “We’ve had many difficulties, especially with injuries, but players are coming back, and I saw an incredibly good spirit.”
