Manchester City’s winless streak came to a dramatic end, though not in the way they had hoped, as Feyenoord mounted a stunning late comeback to draw 3-3 at the Etihad Stadium. Despite holding a commanding 3-0 lead with just 15 minutes remaining, City’s defensive frailties and lack of composure allowed the visitors to claw back and secure an unexpected point.
City had seemed on course for a morale-boosting victory following five consecutive defeats. Erling Haaland was instrumental, scoring twice and looking every bit the predator the team needed. Ilkay Gündogan added a third with a well-taken volley shortly after halftime, and it appeared City had finally rediscovered their rhythm. Pep Guardiola’s tactical tweak to a 4-2-3-1 formation initially seemed effective, providing more attacking fluidity compared to their struggles in a narrow 4-3-3 against Tottenham days earlier.
However, cracks began to show as Feyenoord exploited City’s vulnerabilities. Without Rodri’s calming presence in midfield, City struggled to maintain control. Anis Hadj Moussa pounced on a mistake by Josko Gvardiol in the 75th minute to reduce the deficit, and Santiago Giménez added a second just seven minutes later after another Gvardiol error. The equalizer came in the 90th minute, with David Hancko capitalizing on an ill-advised rush out by goalkeeper Ederson.
City’s defensive collapse highlighted deeper issues that have plagued the team recently. They have now conceded at least twice in six consecutive matches, a troubling trend not seen since 1963. Guardiola acknowledged the fragility of his squad, describing their mental state as “fragile” and lamenting the preventable nature of Feyenoord’s goals.
The match had begun with promise for the hosts. Haaland, lively from the start, forced an early save from Feyenoord goalkeeper Timon Wellenreuther and later converted a penalty after being fouled by Quinten Timber. Gündogan’s sharp volley doubled the lead, and a fluid counterattack saw Haaland net his second and City’s third, seemingly putting the game to bed. Guardiola’s celebrations from the touchline reflected his confidence at that point.
Yet, as the minutes ticked away, City’s composure unraveled. Misplaced passes, lackluster pressing, and defensive lapses allowed Feyenoord to grow in belief. The visitors, fourth in the Eredivisie, showed resilience and punished City’s mistakes with clinical finishing. Guardiola’s frustrations on the sidelines were mirrored by the nervous energy in the stands as the game slipped from his team’s grasp.
This result leaves City in a precarious position in their group, sitting 15th with only eight points and challenging fixtures against Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain still to come. Securing a top-eight spot for automatic qualification to the knockout stages now appears far from guaranteed. As City prepare for a daunting trip to face league leaders Liverpool, questions linger about their ability to handle pressure and regain their dominance.
Despite the disappointing finish, there were flashes of brilliance, particularly in the attacking play led by Haaland and Phil Foden. Yet, defensive cohesion and midfield stability remain glaring weaknesses that Guardiola must urgently address. If City are to reclaim their form and contend at the highest level, they will need more than fleeting moments of inspiration. This match serves as a stark reminder of the challenges ahead.
