Manchester City faced another challenging night as they drew 2-2 against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, continuing a difficult run of form for Pep Guardiola’s team. Goals from Erling Haaland and Rico Lewis rescued a point after Palace’s Daniel Muñoz and Maxence Lacroix twice put the hosts ahead.
City avoided what would have been a sixth straight away defeat in all competitions. However, their defensive struggles were compounded by a late red card for Rico Lewis, who received a second yellow in the 84th minute. This means Lewis will miss the highly anticipated Manchester derby against United next Sunday.
Injuries Taking Their Toll
Guardiola admitted that City are in survival mode this season, with injuries to key players like Nathan Aké and Manuel Akanji further limiting his options.
The squad is also preparing for a crucial Champions League match against Juventus in Turin on Wednesday. City currently trail league leaders Liverpool by eight points, having played one game more.
“It’s a season to survive,” Guardiola said. “We cannot talk about the title race when we lose four games in a row and draw. We’re missing an important player for the United game, but the team has done well considering the circumstances.”
Despite the challenges, Guardiola praised the efforts of players like Haaland, Bernardo Silva, and Josko Gvardiol, who have been crucial in maintaining City’s competitiveness during this difficult stretch.
Haaland on Target, Palace Frustrated
Haaland’s goal brought him level with Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah on 13 league goals, a key positive for Guardiola. “We are lucky we have him,” he said. “We’re lucky to have several players stepping up despite the heavy workload.”
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner was disappointed his side couldn’t hold on for the win. “After leading twice, we became too passive,” he said. “It’s not easy against a team like City. When you’re in your own third, it’s only a matter of time before they find a gap.”
Up Next for City
Manchester City will now turn their focus to the Champions League before returning to Premier League action for the Manchester derby, hoping to overcome their injury woes and get back to winning ways.
