Manchester City endured another frustrating night in the Champions League, surrendering a 3-0 lead to draw 3-3 against Feyenoord on Tuesday. The dramatic collapse in the final 15 minutes extended their winless run to six matches, raising concerns about their form ahead of Sunday’s crucial trip to Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Haaland and Gundogan Give City Early Control
City had looked in complete control in the first half after two goals from Erling Haaland and a deflected strike from Ilkay Gundogan put them 3-0 ahead. The Norwegian striker was clinical, opening the scoring with a penalty after being fouled in the box. He then added a second in the second half, finishing off a cross from Matheus Nunes for his 46th Champions League goal in 44 appearances. Gundogan’s deflected volley from the edge of the box also provided City with breathing room early in the second half.
However, City’s defensive vulnerabilities quickly resurfaced, allowing Feyenoord to mount a stunning comeback.
Feyenoord’s Late Surge
Feyenoord’s resurgence began in the 75th minute when Josko Gvardiol’s poor backpass allowed Anis Hadj Moussa to pounce, round Ederson, and score from a narrow angle. Guardiola, who had been attempting to rebuild his side’s confidence after a 4-0 loss to Tottenham, was left visibly frustrated by the error.
The situation worsened when Ederson failed to deal with a shot from Jordan Lotomba at his near post, allowing Santiago Gimenez to tap in and make it 3-2. Then, in the dying moments, more defensive chaos gifted Feyenoord an equalizer as Rico Lewis played Igor Paixao onside, allowing him to cross for David Hancko, who scored with a header into an unguarded net.
City’s Defensive Woes Continue
This result means City have now conceded two or more goals in six consecutive games for the first time since 1963. Guardiola’s frustration was evident, with defensive mistakes and a lack of focus in key moments costing them the chance to claim all three points.
Despite a near-miss in the final moments, when Jack Grealish’s shot struck the crossbar, City were left to settle for a draw that felt as damaging as their recent defeats. The result leaves them in 15th place in the group with just eight points from five matches, one point ahead of Feyenoord.
The Road Ahead
With only the top eight teams progressing directly to the Champions League knockout rounds, City now face a difficult task ahead, with trips to Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain in their next two group-stage matches. Their focus will need to shift quickly as they look to stabilize their form, particularly ahead of their important Premier League clash with Liverpool on Sunday.
Guardiola’s side will need to address their defensive frailties and regain the confidence that helped them dominate European football in recent years if they are to navigate their way through a challenging period.
