Haaland returns, Man City still can't beat the relegated team

Man City struggled in the race for a UEFA Champions League spot when they were held to a 0-0 draw by Southampton at St. Mary's on the evening of May 10. This result helped Southampton surpass Derby's all-time record for lowest points tally in the Premier League.

The match between Man City and Southampton took on the atmosphere of a training session, with the visitors chasing a Champions League spot and Southampton relegated. Pep Guardiola's side dominated the pitch, but lacked clear-cut chances. It took until the 32nd minute for Man City to have their first shot on goal, with Kevin De Bruyne firing a free-kick from 18 metres over the bar.

Southampton played tightly against Man City (Photo: Getty).

Southampton have conceded more goals in the first half than any other team this season, but the hosts made life difficult for City in the opening 45 minutes. By half-time, Southampton were halfway to securing the points they needed to avoid Derby's unwanted record. Guardiola brought on Jeremy Doku at half-time, but the change made little difference, as City struggled to create chances.

Doku was involved in City's first chance of note, driving to the byline and passing to Bernardo Silva, whose shot was cleared off the line by Jack Stephens. Frustration mounted when Erling Haaland passed to Nico O'Reilly, who missed with the home side wide.

Haaland returned after 6 weeks out but played poorly (Photo: Getty).

City continued to search for a winner in the closing stages, with Savinho, De Bruyne and Omar Marmoush all having chances. However, Southampton held on to hold on to their points, keeping their third clean sheet of the season. While City remain in the top five, they could regret the lost points come the end of the season.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/the-thao/haaland-tro-lai-man-city-van-khong-the-thang-doi-bong-da-xuong-hang-20250510231251934.htm