Guardiola: You can’t win titles without good defense

Guardiola: You can’t win titles without good defense

Pep Guardiola was pleased with how Manchester City handled the “physical” Everton side en route to their 3-1 win on Wednesday night.

Man City was on course for another win as Phil Foden shot him in the lead after half an hour had passed. And a cross fell in the region on two food. His shot hit the right foot of Seamus Coleman before he scored.

Their lead was short-lived, however, as Everton returned them in the 37th minute. Lucas Denny fired a superb shot from the first time towards the goal. His attempt collided with the post, but rebounds past Richarlison.


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Guardiola’s side came back on top in the 63rd minute, in great fashion. Bernardo Silva received it from the edge of the area before dispensing it to Riyad Mahrez. The Algerian international hit the goal for the first time as he definitively found the far left corner after Jordan Pickford.

City’s victory ended in the 77th minute, with Silva winning the third team. Gabriel Jesus was the creator this time when he allowed Silva to enter the edge of the area. He dodged striker Michael Kane before he fired past Beckford to make it 3-1.

This is City’s 17th consecutive victory in all competitions. They now have ten points at the top of the Premier League.

Speaking after the match with Amazon Prime Video, as reported in BBC SportGuardiola suggested that Manchester City always need “patience” when attacking:

“Really tough game, the stadium is not in perfect condition in the winter and they are a very physical team. Strong performance, men running the way we should and three points.”

“We have quality at the front but it comes through passes and when we get to the last third we want to attack very quickly, we have to be patient. The second goal is an example of this. If you can’t find (the hole), make an extra pass.”

“Sometimes Riyad Mahrez plays on the left, sometimes on the right, and that depends on the team’s decisions.

“Football is not defensive, offensive, you cannot win titles (without good defense) and we conceded very few goals and few chances. This team (Everton) scored three goals at Old Trafford and five against Tottenham and a team that can create chances.

“Sometimes our backs attack more broadly, and that depends on the opponents. Not all defenders can play inside, it depends on everyone’s skills.”

Ayhan Fletcher

"Subtly charming zombie nerd. Infuriatingly humble thinker. Twitter enthusiast. Hardcore web junkie."

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