Manchester City were held to a shock goalless draw by relegated Southampton on Saturday, slowing their charge for a Champions League spot, while Brentford and Brighton kept up their push for European qualification.
City were expected to waltz to three points on England’s south coast and pull level with second-placed Arsenal on 67 points.
But although they dominated possession, they could not break the deadlock, despite the return to action of striker Erling Haaland.
The point for Southampton takes them to 12 for the season, meaning they have avoided the tag of being the joint-worst team in Premier League history.
They are now one point clear of Derby’s tally of 11 in the 2007/08 campaign.
Despite the draw, third-placed City remain well-placed to finish in the top five, which would secure qualification for the Champions League next season.
With two games to play they are four points clear of sixth-placed Nottingham Forest, though their rivals all have a game in hand.
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City’s title defence came off the rails in November and December during a season that manager Pep Guardiola has admitted has been the toughest of his 16-year managerial career.
Meanwhile, Brentford defeated already relegated Ipswich 1-0 for their fourth straight win, climbing to eighth in the table, which may be enough for European football next season.
Brighton, also chasing European football, beat Wolves 2-0 at Molineux and are behind Brentford only on goal difference.
Everton also defeated Fulham 3-1 at Craven Cottage.
Aston Villa travel to Bournemouth on Saturday, still dreaming of securing a Champions League spot for next season.
Fourth-placed Newcastle host Chelsea, a place below them, on Sunday, with Forest in action against relegated Leicester.
Champions Liverpool play Arsenal, who are not yet certain of finishing in the top five despite being the closest challengers to Arne Slot’s men this season.
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