Carlo Ancelotti admitted Everton lost to a Manchester City team boasting “fantastic quality, belief and strength” on Wednesday night – but challenged his side to seize a “great opportunity” to hit back in Saturday’s 238th Merseyside derby.
Everton were beaten 3-1 by City at Goodison Park – the result represented relentless City’s 17th consecutive victory in all competitions.
The Blues showed impressive resilience to hit back against the Premier League leaders after Phil Foden’s deflected shot gave City a 32nd-minute lead.
Just five minutes later, Richarlison registered his ninth goal of the season when he finished from close range after Lucas Digne’s strike cannoned off the post.
Riyad Mahrez re-established City’s advantage just after the hour-mark with a precision swerving effort from the edge of the area, before Bernardo Silva’s powerful drive secured maximum points for the away team.
“It was a difficult game [against City],” said Ancelotti.
“From my point of view, the performance was good defensively for one hour. Offensively, we could do better when we had the ball.
“For one hour, I think we had good control of the game. Defending, of course, because we needed to defend.
This video is for Season Ticket Holders, Official Members and Hospitality Members
If you already have an Official Membership or 22/23 Season Ticket, just login to watch the video.
If you are interested in an Official membership, you can find out how to buy one here.
Also check out our streaming FAQs.
This content or section of the site is available for free to Digital Members
To view this content you need to be a Season Ticket Holder, Hospitality Member or Official Member.
As well as access to live pre-season matches, Official Members receive a range of other benefits, including exclusive content and welcome pack.
MORE INFO - BUY A MEMBERSHIP - STREAMING FAQs
“We were in the game. We worked hard, and the second goal was the key point of the game. We were not able to come back as we were able to in the first half.
“They are the best side we have played this season. They have fantastic quality, they have belief, they are strong.
“They are able to play really well with the ball and to work hard without the ball, also.
“They don’t give you a lot of possibility to play. We tried to play but it was not so easy because the effort of all their players is really high.”
Everton remain seventh in the Premier League, five points behind the top four but with a game in hand.
Next up for Ancelotti’s side is a derby meeting with city rivals Liverpool at Anfield, with the Blues aiming to sustain their fine away form.
Everton are unbeaten in their past seven Premier League matches on the road.
“We have to prepare well for the next game,” Ancelotti added.
“It is a great opportunity.
“We don’t need to have regrets about tonight [against City], the regrets were against Fulham.
“We have to try to get points on Saturday.
“The derby is a special game. We know how it is important for our supporters.
“And also, away from home, we are on a really good run, so we hope to continue this.“
