Manchester City avoided an FA Cup upset today, but their 2-1 victory over Leyton Orient did little to inspire confidence.
It took a late Kevin De Bruyne winner, five substitutions and a tactical reshuffle to edge past a League One side that more than held their own.
City fell behind in the first half after Jamie Donley’s audacious effort from near the halfway line bounced off the crossbar and deflected in off goalkeeper Stefan Ortega.
It was a moment of brilliance from the young forward but also a reminder of City’s defensive vulnerability.
Pep Guardiola’s side dominated possession, but their play often lacked urgency. Orient remained disciplined on the break, exposing gaps in City’s high defensive line with surprising ease.
Charlie Kelman and Sonny Perkins had chances, while City struggled to create clear-cut opportunities.
City eventually found a way back in the 56th minute when Rico Lewis’ shot deflected in off Abdukodir Khusanov. Even after equalising, they struggled to impose themselves, and Orient continued to threaten.
City’s breakthrough came in the 79th minute when Jack Grealish lofted a pass into the box, allowing De Bruyne to run in behind and flick the ball past the goalkeeper.
It was a goal of real quality, but it also underlined City’s reliance on their best players to dig them out of trouble.
Guardiola defended his team’s performance. “We played a really good game,” Guardiola said. “It was a typical FA Cup game – that’s why this competition is unbelievable.”
This was another unconvincing display from City. Their attack often felt hesitant, with Grealish passing backwards in the box instead of shooting and Ilkay Gundogan missing a clear opportunity.
Defensively, they looked vulnerable, and Orient took advantage on multiple occasions.
While City remain in contention for multiple trophies, performances like this will not be enough in bigger games.
Their quality saw them through, but it was far from convincing.
