By Samuel Akpan with agency report
Manchester City’s Champions League campaign is hanging by a thread after a shocking 4-2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain at the Parc des Princes.
Despite taking a 2-0 lead early in the second half, City’s frailty was exposed as PSG scored four goals in a rain-soaked second half to leave Guardiola’s men on the brink of elimination.
“We suffered and they were better – better intensity to win duels,” a disappointed Guardiola said after the match. “In the big stages, the big teams, we struggle. We have to accept it.”
City’s defeat means they must beat Club Brugge in their final group match to have any chance of progressing to the knockout stages.
The match was a tale of two halves, with City taking a comfortable lead early in the second half through goals from Jack Grealish and Erling Haaland.
However, PSG’s intensity and pressure eventually told, as they scored four goals in the final 30 minutes to seal a stunning comeback. “Usually in these moments we’re so good,” Grealish said.
“It’s happened too many times this season; when we’ve gone one goal, two goals up, even three against Feyenoord, and we’ve not been able to control the game and see it out.”
Guardiola’s team selection was also called into question, particularly the decision to start Matheus Nunes at right-back.
L’Equipe, the French sports newspaper, gave Nunes a rating of 5/10, criticizing his performance in the unfamiliar position.
Guardiola also faced questions about his decision to substitute Ruben Dias at halftime, with the Portuguese defender reportedly struggling with an injury.
Dias’ injury is a concern for City, who are already facing an injury crisis ahead of their crucial match against Club Brugge.
“He asked to be replaced because he didn’t feel good,” Guardiola said of Dias’ injury.
With City’s Champions League participation hanging in the balance, Guardiola will be hoping that Dias’ injury is not too serious, and that his team can regroup and produce a much-needed win against Brugge.
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