Late Kulusevski Goal Rescues 3-3 Draw for Spurs in Thrilling Clash Against Manchester City

In a pulsating encounter reminiscent of a breathless five-a-side match, Manchester City’s mastery over Tottenham slipped into sloppiness, leaving Pep Guardiola privately fuming. Despite Simon Hooper’s controversial decision to play on in added time before awarding a foul on Erling Haaland, which incited protests from City players, the champions dropped crucial points, trailing three points behind Arsenal after 14 matches.

Dejan Kulusevski emerged as the hero for the visitors, securing a 3-3 draw with a late goal in added minutes. Brennan Johnson’s delivery into City’s area found Kulusevski, who, with a shoulder, beat Ederson to level the score. The draw halted Ange Postecoglou’s side’s three-game losing streak, but City has now dropped six points in their last three outings.

Guardiola faces challenges ahead, with Rodri and Jack Grealish suspended for the next match against Aston Villa. Grealish’s yellow card, earned for a petulant kick, compounds City’s woes, as he was a replacement for the injured Jérémy Doku. Despite Grealish’s late goal putting City ahead 3-2, the champions failed to secure the win, allowing Kulusevski’s intervention to salvage a point for Spurs.

The thrilling encounter showcased City’s vulnerability, marking a departure from their usual dominance. Postecoglou’s tactical adjustments, including introducing Pierre-Emile Højbjerg at halftime, solidified Spurs and contributed to their comeback. The draw adds intrigue to the title race, emphasizing City’s uncharacteristic wobble in recent performances.