'Cruel' exit won't change Pep's VAR view

The second half began with a City onslaught but Lloris' diving save kept out Sterling's low shot and a one-handed save palmed an effort from De Bruyne around the post.

The first flickers of a Spurs threat in the second half came when Llorente dived in with a header, but it lacked power and was blocked by goalkeeper Ederson.

The momentum swung again when City notched its fourth goal in the 59th minute.

Ilkay Gundogan's cross-field pass landed at the feet of De Bruyne, who drove forward before slipping the ball through to Aguero, who beat Lloris at his near post with a powerful shot.

For the first time on the night, City was in front on aggregate and on course for its second Champions League semifinal.

But the host couldn't close the deal.

When Trippier whipped in a corner, Llorente rose and turned the ball into the net with his hip.

The celebrations were put on hold when the referee went to the touchline to check if the ball came off Llorente's arm, but the goal stood.

As the Premier League champion chased the goal that would send them through, Aguero had a header saved by Lloris and an effort from Gundogan was scooped over.

When Sterling found the net again, VAR intervened to leave the home fans crushed-after a long wait for Cakir's final decision.

Guardiola's side was knocked out of a competition for the first time this season after a title in the League Cup and advancement to the FA Cup final while challenging Liverpool for the league title.

In the Premier League, Tottenham sits third in the standings, just a point above north London rival Arsenal. Coping without any new signings this season, the team is fighting for a top-four finish that would earn qualification for next season's Champions League.

Spurs will qualify anyway if they win Europe's top title for the first time.

City and Spurs meet again at Etihad Stadium on Saturday when the Londoners could deliver a major blow to the Sky Blues' title hopes.

Associated Press