Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola says they didn't deserve to make it into the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup following the 2-0 defeat to Southampton.
The Blues were far from their best on a disappointing night at St Mary's as we fell to first half goals from Sekou Mara and Moussa Djenepo.
“The best team won," the boss said. “They were better. We had a bad night and we didn't play good.
“We didn't react good to the bad start. We didn't perform well and to win games, and I'm not talking titles, you have to deserve it.
“If I win something I want to deserve it and today it was not the case. Southampton deserve to be in the semi-finals of this competition."
After back-to-back victories over Chelsea in the Premier League and FA Cup, City went into the game in fine form.
And Guardiola said there was a huge contrast between the performances in the 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge and the 4-0 victory at the Etihad Stadium, compared to that against the Saints.
“It was a bad night," he added. “I know them quite well and today it was not even close to what we are.
“You can pass three days with Chelsea and today so it's a big difference. So, nothing to say.
“[Southampton] were better. When they are better you have to congratulate them and accept it and improve."
