EPL: Guardiola Reflects on Man City's 2-1 Loss to Bournemouth, Ending Streak
Prince Jean
Nov 2, 2024
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola reflects on his team’s 2-1 loss to Bournemouth, which ended their 32-game unbeaten run, acknowledging the challenge of matching Bournemouth's intensity.
Manchester City’s unbeaten run ended with a 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday. Manager Pep Guardiola admitted that his team struggled to match Bournemouth's intensity, with the hosts proving too aggressive and physical for City to handle.
Bournemouth took the lead through Antoine Semenyo, and Evanilson added a second goal, leaving City with a mountain to climb. Josko Gvardiol managed to score for City, but it was not enough to spark a comeback.
Speaking to the BBC, Guardiola said,
“We knew we couldn’t match the intensity. It was an open game. We had chances at the end, but I congratulate Bournemouth for the victory.”
He highlighted the physical nature of the game, adding,
“The 50-50 balls in the middle, the duels—they play this type of game. They are so aggressive. They had six to seven days to prepare. They have physicality and speed, but you have to win these types of situations.”
Despite some strong moments in the second half, including a key save by Ederson, City couldn't turn the game around after Gvardiol's goal, missing the chance to extend their unbeaten streak.