ByTNT Sports
Published 15/03/2025 at 19:56 GMT
Highlights: Forest edge closer to top-four finish with battling win over Man City
Video credit: TNT Sports
Pep Guardiola defended Jeremy Doku after his yellow card for simulation in a [2-2 draw with Brighton](https://www.tntsports.co.uk/football/premier-league/2024-2025/live-manchester-city-brighton-hove-albion_mtc1524026/live-commentary.shtml), while Ilkay Gundogan said the side’s efforts were "not enough".
Doku was booked by referee Simon Hooper as he avoided a challenge from Jan Paul van Hecke, with the referee deeming the Belgian to have unfairly attempted to win a foul.
Guardiola was angry at the decision at the time, discussing the matter with fourth official Anthony Taylor, and he revisited the subject again after the match.
"If he doesn't jump, he can break his leg," he said. "To go on the grass is a tackle, and he jumps, so there is no contact.
"Jeremy is not a diving player. They should know it, but it is what it is.
"We didn't win or lose for those decisions. I said to the referee that if he doesn't jump he can be kicked hard. He jumped to protect himself but it doesn't matter, don't ask me about that."
Erling Haaland and Omar Marmoush were both on target for Guardiola's side, but they were pegged back by Pervis Estupinian and an Abdukodir Khusanov own goal, as Brighton extended their unbeaten run to seven matches in all competitions.
The draw served as a blow for City, who are now facing a tightly-fought battle to ensure UEFA Champions League qualification for next season.
With the extra Champions League spot seemingly sealed for the Premier League, the top-five now stands as the target to secure a spot in the competition.
City remain fifth, but lie just one point ahead of Newcastle - who have a game in hand and are set to take on Liverpool in the Carabao Cup on Sunday.
Guardiola likens Haaland to Messi – ‘The numbers are unbelievable’
Video credit: SNTV
Gundogan - ‘It isn’t enough’
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Speaking to BBC Sport after the game, midfielder Ilkay Gundogan was displeased by his side's performance.
But he urged his side to "stay calm" in pursuit of a finish in the top five, with only Champions League qualification and the FA Cup left to contest this season.
He said: "I feel personally very disappointed. After getting twice in front and actually playing quite well. It's a bit frustrating to not get the three points.
"I think we were able to limit their possession. Second half, after conceding the second, it felt like we dropped in confidence and belief.
"We dropped a little bit and gave away easy chances. It's important to stay calm. Of course, mistakes happen even at this level.
"The opposition are so good. Every game is tough. Then, when you concede sometimes you try not to overdo things.
"We need to expect the best from everyone every single day. I thought we had a good week of training.
"We want to transmit that power and energy into the game. Sometimes it isn't enough."
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