In a match that will be remembered for its sheer chaos and drama, Manchester City threw away a commanding position in the Premier League title race during a 12-minute spell of second-half mayhem at Everton. Despite Jeremy Doku's stunning late equalizer, the damage was done—and Pep Guardiola's side now finds themselves needing favors from others to keep their hopes alive.

For most of the evening, City looked in control, cruising toward what seemed like a routine win. But football has a way of rewriting scripts, and this one flipped in the most extraordinary fashion. Three goals in just 12 minutes turned the game on its head, handing Arsenal the clear advantage in the title chase. Even City's spirited late rally, which saw them claw back two goals, could only limit the damage on Merseyside.

The collapse began with an uncharacteristic error from Marc Guehi, a player who had been near-flawless since joining City. A horribly under-hit back-pass gifted Everton a lifeline, and substitute Thierno Barry pounced to level the score. Barry, who had gone six games without a goal, suddenly became the hero of the night, adding a second shortly after to complete a stunning turnaround. The goals came in a blur—first from a set piece, with Jake O'Brien outjumping Erling Haaland to head in a corner, and then Barry's brace that sent Goodison Park into delirium.

For City, this was a rare moment of fragility. They have not lost in the Premier League since January, but this draw may feel like a defeat in the context of the title race. Now, they must rely on results elsewhere—hoping that West Ham, Burnley, or Crystal Palace can do them a favor against Arsenal. Their destiny is no longer in their own hands.

And while City's refusal to accept defeat showed character, it was the 12 minutes of madness that defined the night. The title race has taken another dramatic twist, and this time, the pendulum has swung firmly in Arsenal's favor. For Mikel Arteta, a former Evertonian, the debt to his old club and manager David Moyes just grew a little larger.