Manchester City suffered a major setback in the Premier League title race after surrendering a two-goal advantage to draw 2–2 with Tottenham Hotspur in a pulsating encounter in North London on Sunday.

Pep Guardiola’s men appeared to be cruising to victory after a dominant first-half display but were pegged back by a resilient Tottenham side that mounted a spirited comeback after the break.

City took the lead in the 11th minute through Rayan Cherki, who finished calmly after a swift attacking move. The visitors doubled their advantage just before halftime when Antoine Semenyo converted from close range to give the champions a comfortable cushion going into the interval.

However, the momentum shifted in the second half as Tottenham emerged with renewed intensity. Dominic Solanke pulled one back in the 53rd minute to spark belief among the home supporters. The forward then produced a spectacular scorpion-style finish in the 70th minute to level the score and complete the comeback.

Manchester City struggled to regain control afterward and failed to register sustained attacking threats in the closing stages. The result means Guardiola’s side have now gone three consecutive Premier League second halves without a shot on target — a run not seen since December 2007.

The dropped points leave City six points behind leaders Arsenal in the title standings, dealing a blow to their pursuit of another league crown.

Speaking after the match, Solanke said Tottenham are determined to build on their improving run of form.

“We are trying to build on it. That is four games unbeaten now and we want to start winning games for sure. We need to stay focused and keep improving. With the crowd behind us and full confidence, we believe we can beat anyone,” he said.

Manchester City remain second on the table, while Tottenham sit 14th with 29 points from 24 matches.

City will next face Newcastle United in the EFL Cup semi-final on Wednesday at the Etihad Stadium, while Tottenham travel to Old Trafford to take on Manchester United in their next league fixture.