City throw away two-goal cushion to draw against Palace

Michael Olise converted a penalty in stoppage time as Crystal Palace fought back from 2-0 down against reigning champions Manchester City to snatch a dramatic 2-2 draw at the Etihad Stadium.

Palace deployed a deep defensive strategy effectively, thwarting City's persistent offensive onslaught. 

Dean Henderson made a crucial save early in his league debut, denying Julian Alvarez's header, the pressure continued. 

The hosts' high intensity paid off in the 24th minute. Phil Foden, in a sequence of possession, fed Jack Grealish, whose precise finish found the bottom-right corner.

City kept creating chances and saw Henderson again making a great save denying Josko Gvardiol's floated ball.

A potential turning point occurred just before half-time, as Jean Mateta, released by Olise, was fouled by Ederson, with the City goalkeeper received only a booking, escaping potentially harsher consequences.

Early in the second half, Alvarez thought he doubled City's lead, but the goal was disallowed for an offside as Rodri was deemed to be interfering with play.

However, City didn't have to wait much longer as Rico Lewis capitalised on a loose ball in the box, extending their lead. 

The visitors unexpectedly pulled one back 15 minutes from time when Marc Guehi's long pass found Jeffrey Schlupp, who delivered a cross for Mateta to convert.

As City sought to manage possession and run down the clock, a defensive error saw Foden foul Mateta in the box and Olise calmly converted the ensuing penalty, sparking jubilation among the away fans.

With this result, City remain fourth, three points behind leaders Liverpool, who host Manchester United at Anfield on Sunday, while Palace are 15th, eight points away from the relegation zone.

With this result, City remain fourth, three points behind leaders Liverpool, who host Manchester United at Anfield on Sunday, while Palace are 15th, eight points away from the relegation zone.

Next up, Pep Guardiola's team is set to travel to Saudi Arabia for the FIFA Club World Cup, where they will face Japan's Urawa Reds in the semi-final on Tuesday evening. 

Their next Premier League fixture will be an away game against Everton scheduled for December 27th.