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.
