Manchester City survived a major scare to scrape into the Champions League playoffs with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Club Brugge at Etihad Stadium. Pep Guardiola’s side knew only a win would suffice to avoid the embarrassment of slipping out of the top 24 places in the tournament’s new format.
City’s nerves were frayed when Raphael Onyedika gave Club Brugge a shock lead just before half-time, turning in Ferran Jutgla’s cross to leave the hosts facing a grim prospect. However, City responded after the break, with Mateo Kovacic driving low past former Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet eight minutes into the second half.
The momentum shifted in City’s favor when Joel Ordonez turned Josko Gvardiol’s cross into his own net, and Savinho sealed the win with a low shot that crept past Mignolet at his near post. The victory ensured City’s progress to the playoffs, where they will face a new challenge in their bid to defend their Champions League title.
Despite the win, City’s performance was far from convincing, and Guardiola will be aware that his team needs to improve significantly if they are to make a deep run in the competition. Club Brugge, meanwhile, can take pride in their display, which showed they fully deserve their place in the playoffs.
The victory was a welcome relief for City, who have been under pressure in recent weeks. With the Champions League playoffs looming, Guardiola will be hoping his team can build on this win and make a strong push for further success in the competition.
City’s progress to the playoffsplayoffs sets up a thrilling next stage of the Champions League, with the Premier League champions facing a new challenge in their bid to defend their title.
The draw for the Champions League playoffs is set to take place soon, and City will be eagerly awaiting their next opponents. With a number of top teams still in the competition, City will need to be at their best if they are to advance to the round of 16 and keep their title defense on track.
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