EPL: Manchester City hold firm to secure 1-0 victory against Spurs

Manchester City looked more like their usual dominant selves in the first half against Tottenham, controlling possession and dictating the tempo with ease.

Pep Guardiola’s side showed a better balance between quick attacking play and patient build-up, something they have struggled with in recent months.

New signing Nico Gonzalez played in a more advanced midfield role alongside Mateo Kovacic, while Nunes tucked in from right-back when City had the ball. This tactical tweak seemed to be the most effective solution Guardiola has found in Rodri’s absence.

City’s left flank was particularly lively, with Jeremy Doku, Gonzalez, and Josko Gvardiol linking up well to create several chances. However, their finishing let them down, preventing them from taking full control of the game.

Despite a stronger second-half performance from Tottenham, City remained solid at the back. Ruben Dias and Abdukodir Khusanov were excellent in defense, while goalkeeper Ederson made crucial saves to keep Spurs at bay. However, City’s lack of clinical finishing could have cost them, as Tottenham pushed for an equalizer late in the game.

Tottenham’s Second-Half Revival Not Enough

Tottenham improved significantly after the break and could have snatched a goal. Kevin Danso had two headers saved by Ederson, while Son Heung-min was unlucky not to score with a low strike that the City keeper reacted well to.

“In the second half, we dominated in all areas but just lacked a goal,” Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou told TNT Sports. “We always finish strong, but in the first half, we gave the ball away too many times, and against City, you can’t afford to do that.”

Interestingly, Spurs’ improvement came before the introduction of key players like Son, Dejan Kulusevski, and Djed Spence, who started on the bench due to squad rotation. With Micky van de Ven, Dominic Solanke, and Cristian Romero expected to return from injury soon, Tottenham could still finish the season strongly.