Pep Guardiola hailed the “unbelievable” FA Cup after watching his Manchester City side avoid an almighty scare at Leyton Orient this afternoon.
City trailed at half-time after Stefan Ortega turned Jamie Donley’s 45-yard effort into his own net but goals after the break from Abdukodir Khusanov and Kevin De Bruyne nudged the visitors into the hat for the fifth round.
Guardiola told BBC Sport: “We played a really good game, it was a typical FA Cup game – that’s why this competition is unbelievable.
“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.”
De Bruyne digs out weakened team
Guardiola named a much-changed line-up given City face Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League knockout round tie on Tuesday night but denied he was irritated at having to bring on the rested Phil Foden and De Bruyne to dig his team out of a hole.
“Absolutely not, that is why they are here,” he added. “We take 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.”
Guardiola included debutants Vitor Reis and Nico Gonzalez in his starting XI but the former was dragged off at half-time and the latter injured in the build-up to Orient’s opener.
The visitors felt Gonzalez had been fouled but referee Darren Bond waved away their protests.
“Welcome to the Premier League and the referees,” said Guardiola sarcastically. “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.”
“Our chairman was buzzing he got to meet Pep before the game!”
A big day at Leyton Orient today ❤️ pic.twitter.com/fpVRnSpOWE
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) February 8, 2025
Wellens delighted by plucky Orient
Orient boss Richie Wellens was understandably proud of his team’s efforts.
He said: “We created chances, we caused them problems and the atmosphere was brilliant. The goals are so obvious for us. Their wingers were staying high and wide and causing problems. I’m disappointed with the last goal. At least it took the big boy to come on and beat us.
“When this draw comes out, you’re worried the players’ minds go to that. We needed legs in the last 20 minutes. Our lads are learning their trades. The game management is what you need to be a proper player.
“It was a brilliant atmosphere, they’re a brilliant outfit and I wish them well against Madrid. Our chairman’s buzzing he met Pep.”