Stefan Ortega: Manchester City goalkeeper proves hero as title looms

Manchester City have seen an unlikely hero emerge from their galaxy of superstars to make a potentially defining contribution in their quest for an unprecedented fourth straight Premier League title.

Pep Guardiola was rightly cautious when he took off goalkeeper Ederson with City leading 1-0 after he suffered a nasty blow to the head in a heavy collision at the foot of his post with Tottenham defender Cristian Romero.

Ederson, who has had an eye problem, did not appear happy with the decision – taken on the advice of the club doctor – but his manager was perfectly justified, not only acting in the best interests of the Brazilian goalkeeper, but also because he has complete faith in his replacement Stefan Ortega.

And in a 21-minute cameo of the highest quality, Ortega – who has performed with distinction every time he has deputized for Ederson this season – could very well have City’s sixth title in seven seasons.

When the final whistle blew and the club were one win away from being champions again, Guardiola went straight to Ortega and greeted the German with a kiss on the cheek for his crucial contribution. It was well deserved.

Guardiola didn’t hold back with his praise saying: “Ortega is a world-class goalkeeper. An exceptional, exceptional goalkeeper. Ederson didn’t have a concussion, he had an eye problem. He couldn’t see well so the doctor said. He should I’m changing.”

Spurs completely scoffed at cynics who suggested they could relax as any kind of positive result could hand rivals Arsenal their first Premier League title in 20 years.

In fifth place, Ange Postecoglou’s side were fully committed to chasing an own goal as they chased a Champions League spot and it wasn’t for lack of effort as they came so close to upsetting the traditional title of City. They were disappointed in the end as the defeat confirmed Aston Villa’s fourth-placed finish, and they will now join European football’s top flight.

Ortega’s impact was instant, denying Spurs substitute Dejan Kulusevski with a fine save, and then the same player soon after as City almost paid the price for a performance that wasn’t one of their best.

The biggest moment came in the final minutes, with City clinging to a one-goal lead, when Son Heung-min collected the ball and raced clear, with only Ortega to beat. It was the kind of opportunity the South Korean has taken with aplomb so many times in his Spurs career.