Silky performance as City start their Champions League campaign
By Laura Graves
Manchester City travelled to Spain to face Sevilla who sit 17th in La Liga to kick off their Champions League campaign.
After more Champions League heartbreak for the blues last season, they will hope to charge their way to finish top of group G.
Manchester City displayed their dominance yet again, with 62% possession, 634 passes, and 24 shots. Silky smooth football, and passing brilliance.
The game could have been put to bed by early second half. De Bruyne saw a 1 on 1 with the Sevilla keeper saved, with some other missed opportunities.
Sevilla lacked adventure and “balls” in the first half. However, they did make some changes early in the second half that allowed them to venture forward and cause little defensive chaos for City.
The first goal came from a stunning De Bruyne cross to Haaland in the 20th minute, and City’s second came from Foden in the 58th minute.
Haaland got his brace through a chance created by Foden in the 67th minute. The fourth and final goal of the night came from Ruben Dias, our number 3, after he got himself on the end of Cancelo’s cross in the 91st minute.
There were some particularly impressive standouts, despite it being a great team effort and solid performances all round.
Akanji, in his debut for the blues looked well settled into the system, and strengthened the backline like he’s been in Pep’s side for years.
Looking comfortable on the ball, alert in defence and a passing range that’s always required within a Pep Guardiola set up.
Sergio Gomez made a solid start too, settled into the game and became more involved on the left side and was unlucky not to grab an assist.
Grealish back from injury and looking dangerous. Looked a little slow in the opening minutes, but began to take on players and create some good chances.
Foden switched to the right. I am sure we all remember the explosive performance at Anfield where he tore Robertson to shreds.
He looked fresh, dangerous and was involved in everything good. Crucial in creating Haaland’s first goal and his second. His first touch is special and he was back for defensive duties.
Showing composure beyond his years, the young, but experienced blue took his chance coolly in the box for City’s second goal.
Despite being three up halfway through the second half, the blues fought tirelessly and relentlessly to win the ball back to prevent Sevilla counterattacks and maintain their clean sheet.
Another huge positive for the game was that Pep was able to bring off key players early to rest them ahead of Saturdays game at home against Spurs.
Next. Who is the favourite for the Champions League?. dark
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