Manchester City progressed in the FA Cup thanks to a late 1-0 win over Tottenham.
Nathan Ake netted late on after a fiercely contested contest to send the defending champions through in the competition.
Here are four big talking points from the game…
Spurs missing midfield duo
Embed from Getty ImagesMuch has been made of Heung-Min Son’s absence due to the Asian Cup, which is undoubtedly a huge blow for Tottenham, but what has perhaps gone under the radar slightly is how much they miss Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr who are playing at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Spurs’ starting centre midfield duo offer so much energy, pace and athleticism in the middle of the park and they do not look as dangerous, particularly when they have the opportunity to break at speed, when those two are not in the team, which is completely understandable. Either would be a significant upgrade on Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg in the middle of the park.
Tottenham’s faltering attack
Ange Postecoglou’s free-scoring Tottenham side managed just one shot in the defeat to Manchester City, failing to turn the positive possession they did have in the final third into meaningful shots at goal. Granted, Timo Werner has not played much football this season and deserves a bit of patience to at least get up to speed but the difference between when he plays out on the left compared to Heung-Min Son is vast. Werner really struggled to make an impact and does not look like he has much confidence in his decision making at all. Brennan Johnson also struggled to make his presence felt and while he worked incredibly hard, opportunities for Richarlison were limited. Spurs need more from their attack while Heung-Min Son is away.
City must find room for Foden and De Bruyne
Embed from Getty ImagesThere has been questions over what Kevin De Bruyne’s return might mean for Phil Foden and his starting spot but based on today’s performance, Pep Guardiola must find room for them both in his starting line-up when De Bruyne is fit enough to start games again. Some of Foden’s movement with and without the ball was truly world class and he set up De Bruyne for a massive chance in the second half which the midfielder surprisingly missed. City’s brightest player on the night.
City’s winning mentality
Even when not at their best, City keep finding a way to win games which is the mark of a truly great team. They netted late on to beat Newcastle United 3-2 earlier this month and their belief and character was demonstrated again with Nathan Ake’s late winner against Spurs. Even when the games are close, Pep Guardiola’s side manage to find the edge they need to win games.
Maddison’s return a positive note for Spurs
Embed from Getty ImagesIt was ultimately a disappointing night for Tottenham who were far off their best and did not create enough clear-cut opportunities to win the game. But one positive for Ange Postecoglou’s side was the return of James Maddison, who was instrumental in the early success Spurs had this season. He only played around 20 minutes but having him back in a midfield which has been hit by absences due to injuries and international duty is a huge boost.
