Manchester City fought until the last seconds, but the breathtaking draw against Everton may be the turning point that caused them to lose their right to self-determination in the Premier League title race.
Although Jeremy Doku shone with a classy double - especially a super product in the 90+7 minute - Pep Guardiola's team still could not hide a worrying reality. They made it difficult for themselves right at the most decisive moment of the season. When the final whistle sounded in Merseyside, Man City still maintained an unbeaten streak, but the price to pay could be the championship.
Coach Guardiola admitted after the match: "Everything used to be in our hands, but now it's not anymore". That saying clearly reflects the current situation, when Mikel Arteta's Arsenal is in a big advantage in the race. Man City is now forced to rely on losses from opponents, instead of deciding their own fate.
The match, which seemed to be under control, turned in a completely different direction in just over 10 minutes of chaos. Marc Guehi's rare mistake became a turning point, opening up an emotional comeback for the home team. Thierno Barry took advantage of the opportunity to score, before Everton continued to punish City's chaotic defense with set pieces - a familiar weapon under David Moyes.
From the lead, The Citizens were suddenly pushed into a situation of being led 3-1. They were famous for their ability to control and finish the match, but this time they lost their composure at the most important moment. Emptiness was revealed, personal mistakes appeared, all creating a second half that Guardiola himself found difficult to explain.
However, the bravery of the former champion still spoke up. Right after conceding the third goal, Erling Haaland immediately narrowed the score with a delicate handling. And then Doku, with his explosive performance, saved 1 precious point. Two goals from the Belgian player - one in the penalty area, one from outside the penalty area - both deserved to be super products.
However, that score only means reducing losses. Because in the context of the championship race entering the final stretch, losing the advantage means Man City must depend on the results of other teams. Arsenal's remaining opponents such as West Ham United, Burnley or Crystal Palace have now become Guardiola's unwilling hope.
In the opposite direction, Everton has the right to regret. They were very close to a historic victory, before dropping everything in the final minutes. However, this team's performance showed commendable fighting spirit, especially in the second half when they switched from defense to attack very effectively.
In short, this is a match that both teams have reason to regret, but Man City is probably the team that has to pay a higher price. One point is not a disaster, but in the fierce race with Arsenal, it could be the moment that decides the whole season.
