City Edge Past Club Brugge to Keep European Hopes Alive
Pep Guardiola admitted feeling a sense of relief after Manchester City narrowly secured a place in the UEFA Champions League play-offs, finishing 22nd in the league phase on goal difference.
City had to dig deep at the Etihad Stadium, coming from behind to beat Club Brugge 3-1 in a tense encounter. Raphael Onyedika stunned the home crowd by putting Brugge ahead just before halftime, leaving Guardiola’s side facing an early exit from the competition.
However, a second-half resurgence, sparked by substitute Savinho and the experience of Mateo Kovacic, turned the tide. Kovacic equalized in the 53rd minute, before an own goal handed City the lead. Savinho then sealed the win, ensuring City’s progression.
Despite the victory, Guardiola acknowledged City’s inconsistency this season. “We have been so unstable during the season,” he told TNT Sports. “In the past, we were always incredibly consistent, but this has not been a stable season. Today is a sense of relief to qualify. Of course, it’s a long season ahead, but step by step, we are recovering results.”
Guardiola also praised Kovacic’s contribution, highlighting his ability to break through defensive lines. “He makes a fantastic goal. I know Kova, when he’s able to break the lines in that way, it’s something unique, something special,” the City boss said.
While City have secured their place in the next stage, their path does not get any easier. They now face a two-legged play-off against either Real Madrid or Bayern Munich, with a spot in the last 16 on the line.
Looking ahead, Guardiola remained optimistic: “Of course, it’s Real Madrid or Bayern Munich, which will be really tough. But in two weeks, we’ll have a few players back, the new signings back, so hopefully, we can do well in both games.”
With their European journey hanging in the balance, City will need to summon their trademark resilience to keep their Champions League hopes alive.
Similar Posts:
- Guardiola Praises Kovacic’s Heroics in Man City’s Comeback Win Over Fulham
- Man City’s Champions League Hopes in Jeopardy After PSG Defeat
- PSG Stuns Manchester City with Dramatic Comeback Victory
- Pep Guardiola Reflects on 500 Games at Manchester City Amid Recent Struggles
- Champions League Chaos: Man City’s Stumbles, Arsenal’s Opportunity, and Spurs’ Survival Gamble
