In the second half, Crystal Palace was still quite laid-back.
They were passing the ball back and forth at their feet and not pushing forward aggressively, as if they were the ones leading.
As for Manchester City, they were also cooperating with their opponents without employing high pressing.
In short, both sides were just dragging along, you kick, I kick, even hoping the match would end early so they could clock out.
The only one still somewhat enthusiastic was Manchester City's starting striker Iheanacho, who had already scored two goals and was eager to complete a hat-trick and take home the match ball.
Time ticked away, reaching the 81st minute.
Pellegrini used his last substitution slot.
He took off Nasri and brought on Tang Long.
His original intention was for Tang Long to warm up a bit, run around for 10 minutes, and prepare for the Premier League match three days later.
