Manchester City eased to a 5-0 victory at the Etihad for their Champions League clash with F.C. Copenhagen.
We saw more Haaland goals as he bagged a brace, and goals from Mahrez and Alvarez. An assured and controlled performance at the back from Dias and Laporte. And we were treated to some cameos from the youngsters.
Starting XI: Ederson, Cancelo, Dias, Laporte, Gomez, Gundogan (C), Silva, Grealish, Mahrez, Alvarez and Haaland.
Here are our player ratings (with a twist):
Ederson: C
Had very little to do. A couple of half-hearted shots to save. Not put under any pressure. But as always, some excellent footwork.
Cancelo: B
Rarely troubled defensively, but always a threat going forward. Created a goal scoring opportunity for the Nordic Meat Shield and the first goal of the evening. Switched between tucking into a more inverted role and back out on the right in support of Mahrez.
Dias: C
Solid, confident, controlled performance. Not really troubled and partnered well with Laporte again.
Laporte: B
Excellent in getting the team forward and on the front foot. Great defensive work and even got a smack in the kipper for good measure. Handled it like a boss. Won the penalty.
Gomez: B
Very calm defensively and held his own. Brought an unpredictability to left side which caused the Copenhagen defence lots of problems. Involved in the 2nd goal and forced the 3rd goal.
Gundogan (C): B
Bossed midfield and mopped up loose balls, preventing any real threat coming City’s way. An incredibly intelligent player, a bargain.
Silva: C
A menace as always. Plenty of trickery to keep the Copenhagen defence on their toes, had a lively start and helped the skipper sweep up in midfield.
Grealish: A+
Calves out was selected as UCL player of the match after an exquisite performance on home turf. Whilst he didn’t register a goal or assist, everything threatening came through him. He looked like he was thoroughly enjoying life at City.
That goal is all about Jack Grealish, but your old man will tell me he’s a waste of money because he didn’t get a goal or an assist.
— Tom Young (@TomYoungSJ) October 5, 2022
Mahrez: B
Despite his penalty goal and an assist, it took the Algerian a little time to settle into the game. Understandable considering it was his first start and 90 minutes for a while. As he grew into the game, he became more influential.
Haaland: A
His two goals were great and all, but his overall performances are improving game by game. He has stepped up his defensive work and pressing, and his hold up play is exceptional. Taken off after 45 minutes.
Palmer (sub): C
Great performance and cameo from the youngster. Looks dangerous and had the Copenhagen defence all over the place.
Lewis (sub): C
Promising talent on display. Quick, good defensively, and a threat going forward. Composed beyond his years.
Wilson-Esbrand (sub): C
Supported on the left by Gomez, and not troubled defensively. Had plenty of opportunities to link-up with Grealish and Gomez.
Copenhagen fans: A+++++
Excellent overall performance from the boys. Next up, City will take on Southampton at home on Saturday; keep your eyes peeled for our predicted line-up.