Losing In The Third Position, Guardiola Remains Optimistic That Man City Qualifies For The Champions League

Manchester City lost 1-0 against Nottingham Forest in the English Premier League match. (X/@premierleague)

JAKARTA - Manchester City failed to replace Nottingham Forest after losing 1-0 in the English Premier League match at The City Ground Stadium, Nottingham, Saturday, March 8, 2025 evening WIB. Man City's position is even threatened. However, manager Pep Guardiola is optimistic that Man City will compete in the Champions League.

Man City and Forest are fighting for third place. Because Forest, who occupies that position, is only one point ahead with Man City who is ranked fourth.

But Man City lost in the race for positions in the top three. In the fight between the two top teams, Man City lost 1-0. The only Forest goal was produced by Callum Hudson-Odoi in the 83rd minute. Goals came after the 24-year-old met Morgan Gibbs-White Hudson-Odoi's cross into the penalty box to beat defender Josko Gvardiol and goalkeeper Ederson.

A goal that led Nuno Espirito Santo's team to stay in third place with 51 points. Meanwhile, Man City failed to complete the mission. Marking 47 points, The Cityzens remain in fourth place.

The failure to get the three points in the away match put Man City at risk. They could be knocked out of the Champions League zone if Chelsea, who are one point adrift of Leicester City, Sunday, March 9, 2025 evening WIB.

"A very tight match. We actually controlled the game and the transition went very well. We didn't have much chance, but we were able to defend well," Guardiola was quoted as saying by nbcsports.

"In the first half, we had several chances but the shot into the goal was not directed. In the end, when the transition occurred, we lost the ball and allowed them to score goals," he said.

"It must be admitted, they defended very well and we didn't get a good chance. The match was tight," he said again.

Despite losing, Guardiola remains optimistic that Man City will survive in the top four. Only he admits the competition will get tougher.

"We know this will be difficult. The Premier League competition and competition for tickets to the Champions League are getting tougher," said Guardiola.

Meanwhile, Hudson-Odoi was happy to have scored the goal that determined the victory. This is the first time Forest defeated Man City in a match in the highest caste since 1997

"I'm actually happy with this goal," Hudson-Odoi said.

"We never stop fighting and how to fight for the ball. I'm happy to win for fans. You can see, our supporters. They are so extraordinary," he said.