Pep Guardiola reaction: ‘It is a mystery’ how Man City didn’t score against Sunderland

Pep Guardiola reaction: ‘It is a mystery’ how Man City didn’t score against Sunderland

Pep Guardiola could only watch on in frustration as Manchester City’s six-game winning run came to an end with a goalless draw away at newly promoted Sunderland on Thursday night.

The stalemate marked the first time City have failed to find the net in a Premier League match in ten outings, despite dominating large spells of the contest. After the game, Guardiola reflected on a night where his side created plenty but lacked the finishing touch.

“We played well and we take the point,” Guardiola said. “We were in the six-yard box so many times but couldn’t convert our chances. That’s football sometimes. Sunderland are a very good side and they always carried a threat, but overall I was pleased with the performance, especially in the second half.”

The City boss admitted the opening period proved more challenging, largely due to Sunderland’s aggressive pressing.

“In the first half it was difficult because of their pressure,” he explained. “But Rodri gave us composure and helped us break the lines. Once we did that, we were able to run at them more. The second half was much, much better.”

Guardiola also acknowledged how difficult Sunderland made the contest, particularly with their physical approach and tight marking.

“They were very aggressive man-to-man in the first half, and it wasn’t easy to get the ball into the forward areas. In the second half we played better, but they are strong and physical, and in the end we take the point.”

Asked whether he felt his side deserved more from the match, Guardiola was philosophical.

“It is what it is,” he said with a smile. “You can’t change the result. The result is always the result.”