Guardiola applauds ‘unbelievable’ FA Cup after Man City avoid Orient shock | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola says that Man City’s battle with Leyton Orient at Brisbane Road shows why the FA Cup is an “unbelievable” competition.

The hosts took a surprise lead after just 15 minutes when Tottenham loanee Jamie Donley’s 40-yard lob smacked off the crossbar and rebounded into the net off the back of goalkeeper Stefan Ortega.

Abdukodir Khusanov equalised after he was brought on at halftime and Kevin De Bruyne netted the winner shortly after being introduced to send the Premier League champions through to the fifth round.

Guardiola applauds ‘unbelievable’ FA Cup as Man City beat Orient

“We played a really good game, it was a typical FA Cup game – that’s why this competition is unbelievable,” Guardiola told BBC Sport.

“We knew that they were strong and they’d run in the channels. They are a really good team and incredibly well managed but we created a lot of chances. I’m happy to go through.”

Despite an unconvincing performance, Guardiola felt his side didn’t struggle in the opening half of an entertaining contest. “I don’t think so,” he said.

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“The first 10, 15 minutes maybe but after the fantastic goal that they had – we took the game and created a lot of chances.”

Guardiola gave an emphatic response when asked if he was frustrated he had to bring on Phil Foden and De Bruyne to win the game. “Absolutely not, that is why they are here,” he said.

“We talk this competition incredibly seriously and we thought it was the best decision to make. I am happy for Kevin’s goal, his movement was really good.”

Nico Gonzalez, who only just signed for Man City from FC Porto for £50 million this week, was forced off the pitch with an injury 22 minutes into his debut.

“Welcome to the Premier League and the referees,” Guardiola remarked. “Maybe he knew about the referees because I understand it’s not easy. It’s not easy to do something when you play against teams like in League One.”

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