Manchester City recommenced their quest to defend their Champions League title with a convincing win against FC Copenhagen in the initial match of their last-16 encounter.
Following Kevin de Bruyne’s early goal, it seemed Manchester City would secure a substantial victory as the hosts struggled to challenge them. However, a mistake from Ederson, who made a poor clearance, gifted Copenhagen possession, allowing Magnus Mattsson to capitalize with a superb strike.
Bernardo Silva then restored Manchester City’s lead just before halftime with a clever flick, courtesy of a deflected ball from De Bruyne.
Throughout the second half, both De Bruyne and Erling Haaland had opportunities to extend the lead.
Despite City not reaching their full attacking potential, they managed to maintain a two-goal advantage thanks to Phil Foden’s late goal.
“The biggest players appear on the biggest stages,” said Guardiola on TNT Sports. “It’s the hour of truth. We started well. We have to do our job and finish it.
“I’m just really pleased for the result.”
Manchester City will host Copenhagen in the second leg on Wednesday, 6 March.
Man City ‘patient in the right moments’
This marked Copenhagen’s first match in two months following the pause of football activities in Denmark for a winter break.
Despite Guardiola’s pre-game warning that they wouldn’t make it easy for his team, the Danes had a history of challenging big teams, having defeated Manchester United 4-3 at the Parken Stadium in the Champions League group stage and holding Manchester City to a goalless draw in 2022.
Guardiola’s team began strongly but couldn’t maintain the initial momentum, though they had numerous opportunities to secure a more substantial victory.
However, former Liverpool goalkeeper Kamil Grabara played a crucial role in limiting the visitors to two goals, making important saves to thwart Ruben Dias and Jeremy Doku.
Yet, in the final stages of the match, the visitors intensified their efforts, ensuring a healthy advantage for the second leg. Their victory was sealed when Foden capitalized on De Bruyne’s pass to drive in a goal.
“Today was perfect,” Guardiola added. “They were patient in the right moments. Really good.
“I’m really proud of the team. The third goal helped us a lot. Hopefully we can finish it off at home and go to the next game.”
Guardiola waits on Grealish injury
The swift start from Manchester City was notably interrupted by Jack Grealish’s early exit due to injury.
Despite making his first start in six games, the English forward suffered a suspected muscle injury after contesting for the ball with Diogo Goncalves.
Grealish, who had previously missed three games in September due to a hamstring injury, was substituted off in the 21st minute. City will be anxiously awaiting further assessment, hoping that the extent of the injury is less severe than initially feared.
“It looks like a muscular [injury] for Jack Grealish,” Guardiola said.
“It is a pity. He helped us to play at the right tempo. He felt it when he rolled on the grass.”
Guardiola also revealed Silva picked up an injury, adding: “Bernardo took a big knock on the ankle. Hopefully it is not a big issue, but we will see.”