Manchester City’s struggles continued on Christmas Day as they were held to a 1-1 draw by a stubborn Everton at the Etihad.
The turning point of the game came in the 53rd minute when Jordan Pickford denied Erling Haaland from the penalty spot. The foul left City fans and players speechless, and the moment became a key moment of the match.
After Savinho had been fouled in the area, Haaland got up to take the penalty. However, Everton’s Pickford engaged in a series of antics to disrupt the striker’s focus.
What Jordan Pickford was seen doing before Erling Haaland’s penalty miss
The England international made exaggerated faces, stuck out his tongue and even winked at Haaland in the build-up, adding a psychological edge to the moment.
Despite Haaland’s reputation for composure under pressure, Pickford’s mind games seemed to be working. Guessing the direction of the striker’s shot, Pickford dove to his right to make a crucial save, keeping Everton’s resistance intact and dealing a blow to City’s chances of securing all three points.
Jordan Pickford tries to clear Erling Haaland before his penalty…
… then his wink after saving it?#PLonPrime #MCIEVE pic.twitter.com/vVcb8KtxV3
— Amazon Prime Video Sport (@primevideosport) December 26, 2024
? – Part 1: Pickford makes a funny face at Haaland before the penalty.
? – Part 2: Haaland reacts calmly and calmly.
? – Part 3: Pickford saves the penalty.
? – Part 4: Pickford winks at Haaland. pic.twitter.com/NyER1U6cm5— TheEuropeanLad (@TheEuropeanLad) December 26, 2024
Adding to the tension, Everton captain Seamus Coleman appeared to exchange words with Haaland before kick-off, further fueling the psychological battle on the pitch.
City took an early lead in the 14th minute through Bernardo Silva, whose effort found the bottom right corner. However, Everton equalized in the 36th minute when Abdoulaye Doucouré delivered a pinpoint cross which Ndiaye converted with a superb finish.
Despite dominating possession and creating chances, City were unable to capitalize on their expected 2.04 goals (xG). Missed chances, including Haaland’s penalty, eventually cost them vital points.
Manchester City disappear in the title race
The draw sees Manchester City drop to seventh in the Premier League table, adding to a string of underwhelming performances.
His current slump is enjoyed by rivals, with Paul Scholes publicly admits his revel in it
Liverpool with their win over Leicester City have further extended their lead at the top of the table with a game in hand. Closest to them are Chelsea in second place with 35 points and Nottingham Forest sitting in third place with 34 points. Arsenal, who are still tipped to rival Liverpool for the league title, are currently fourth on 33 points (with a game in hand).
