Man City Frustrated by Bottom-Club Southampton as Brentford, Brighton Close in on Europe
SOUTHAMPTON — Manchester City’s hopes of securing a top-five Premier League finish took a hit on Saturday as Pep Guardiola’s side were held to a goalless draw by already relegated Southampton at St Mary’s Stadium.
Despite dominating possession and firing 26 shots, City failed to find the breakthrough, even with the return of top-scorer Erling Haaland, who made his first appearance since March. The Saints, playing only for pride, defended deep and frustrated the defending champions, who now face increased pressure to maintain a European place.
“They came to defend, defend, and waste time,” Guardiola told BBC. “We were strong defensively but missed that final touch in front of goal.”
The result leaves City in third place with two games to go, four points ahead of Nottingham Forest in sixth, though Forest and others have a game in hand. The draw could prove costly as City look to secure Champions League football next season.
For Southampton, the result was a rare bright moment in a difficult campaign. The draw takes their season tally to 12 points, meaning they avoid equaling Derby County’s infamous 11-point haul from 2007/08.
“It’s not a great tally, we know that,” said Southampton keeper Aaron Ramsdale. “But this was for the fans. They’ve suffered all season.”
Brentford and Brighton in European Contention
Brentford made it four wins in a row with a 1-0 victory over relegated Ipswich, thanks to a powerful header from Kevin Schade in the 18th minute. The win takes Brentford to eighth place, potentially enough to qualify for Europe depending on FA Cup results.
“Europe is possible,” said Schade. “The team feels like family and we want to finish strong.”
Close behind them, Brighton secured a 2-0 win over Wolves at Molineux. Danny Welbeck opened the scoring with a penalty before Brajan Gruda sealed the win late in the second half. Brighton sit just behind Brentford on goal difference.
Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler downplayed European talk: “We’re focused on the next match.”
Everton Snap Winless Run
At Craven Cottage, Everton came from behind to beat Fulham 3-1. Raul Jimenez gave Fulham an early lead, but Vitalii Mykolenko, Michael Keane, and Beto turned the game around to end Everton’s recent poor form.
Despite their inconsistency, Everton had already secured safety earlier in the campaign following David Moyes’ return.
Weekend Fixtures to Watch
- Aston Villa, currently seventh, will face Bournemouth in Saturday’s late kick-off as they chase a surprise Champions League spot.
- Newcastle host Chelsea on Sunday in a crucial fourth-vs-fifth clash.
- Nottingham Forest take on Leicester, who are already relegated, as the fight for Europe and survival intensifies.
