Man City held by battling Southampton in blow to top-five push

Despite dominating possession and racking up 26 shots - matching their highest shot tally in a Premier League game without scoring since 2020 - City failed to break down a resilient Saints defence that refused to yield under pressure. The result leaves Pep Guardiola's side in third place, but now just four points ahead of sixth-placed Nottingham Forest with two games remaining.

Returning to the starting XI for the first time since March, Erling Haaland endured a quiet afternoon on his comeback from injury, managing just five first-half touches and failing to make an impact in the final third. City's attacking efforts, while relentless in volume, lacked their usual sharpness and composure.

Southampton, already relegated, may be playing for pride but showed no shortage of fight. Interim boss Simon Rusk had voiced concerns about his side's ability to compete at both ends, but his players responded with a disciplined and spirited display, ensuring the club will not finish the campaign with the Premier League's all-time lowest points total - a record still held by Derby County's 2007/08 side (11 points). The Saints now sit on 12.

City were profligate in front of goal and found Aaron Ramsdale in strong form, particularly in the second half. The Southampton goalkeeper produced crucial saves to deny Ruben Dias and Savinho, while late substitute Omar Marmoush nearly snatched the win for the visitors with a curling effort that struck the bar deep in stoppage time.

The introduction of Jeremy Doku at the interval injected urgency into City's attack. The Belgian winger repeatedly stretched the Saints' backline and created chances, including a dangerous cutback that nearly led to an own goal. However, the final pass or finish consistently let City down.

At the other end, Southampton defended with commitment. Captain Jack Stephens, Jan Bednarek, and Taylor Harwood-Bellis were excellent throughout, while Ramsdale's assured performance between the posts provided a vital last line of resistance.

For City, this goalless draw raises concerns ahead of the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace next weekend. They finish the league season with matches against Bournemouth and Fulham, both of which now carry increased significance in the race for Champions League qualification.

For Southampton, it's now about ending their Premier League stay on a competitive note. Fixtures against Everton and Arsenal round off their season, with survival long out of reach but pride still very much on the line. 

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