According to Guardiola, City aims to secure a place in the Champions League next season after their title hopes dealt another blow by a resolute Crystal Palace.
Fernandinho’s own-goal ensured Crystal Palace claimed a draw at the Etihad Stadium. The results leave City 13 points behind the Premier League leaders, Liverpool.
Sergio Aguero’s last 10-minute goals turned a thrilling contest on its head. City was set to earn the victory after Cenk Tosun gave the Eagles a first-half lead.
However, Palace had the final word. Wilfred Zaha stole down the left and put in a low cross that Fernandinho reached before Connor Wickham only to divert the ball into his net.
For a moment, it appeared City would end up empty-handed in the struggle to break down a brilliantly organized Palace.
Meanwhile, Palace hardly ventured forward until they scored. City fans booed James McArthur for wasting time as he walked over to take the corner that led to their first goal.
In the second half, it took the Argentine, Aguero to lead the rescue mission. His first goal came when he turned home a Gabriel Jesus cross before his second saw him expertly nod home a Benjamin Mendy delivery.
“We did everything to win the game. Unfortunately, in the end, we lost two points because we could not stop the counter-attack.” Said Guardiola.
“But we have to continue. There are still a lot of games to play. We have to try to secure the place for the Champions League next season.”
Palace rewarded for effort and organization.
Palace’s triumph came largely thanks to two brilliant strikes from distance. Points earned here came from teamwork, effort, and discipline.
Palace needed a cutting edge too and of course, they got it from Tosun who has joined on loan from Everton.
The Turkey striker marked his first start for the club with a fine finish. He awarded Palace with a lead and he tested Ederson again after the break.
“We have only had him for a week. So we are still learning about him. But his performance was not only very professional but also technically very good.” Said Hodgson.
“He is going to be delighted with his debut and I hope he continues along those lines for the next 15 games. There is a lot of football to be played.”