Manchester City defeated FC Copenhagen 3-1 in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 matchup at Parken Stadium.
The English champions, riding high on an incredible 11-game winning streak, demonstrated their superiority on the European stage.
Manchester City asserted their dominance early on, with over 80% control. Kevin De Bruyne, the midfield maestro, set the tone with a brilliant low finish in the tenth minute, emphasizing City’s attacking ability. However, a slight lapse allowed Copenhagen’s Magnus Mattsson to make his debut with a magnificent shot from outside the box, tying the game.
Undeterred, City quickly seized control, with Bernardo Silva sending a brilliantly timed shot past Copenhagen goalkeeper Kamil Grabara just before halftime. Despite Jack Grealish’s injury, Jeremy Doku’s flawless substitution kept City’s offensive onslaught going in the Champions League.
Copenhagen, coming off a winter vacation and lacking match sharpness, struggled to contain City’s persistent attack. Ederson is impoverished.
As the clock crept down, Phil Foden clinched the victory for Manchester City with a stunning effort in second-half stoppage time. Foden’s goal not only sealed the victory, but also extended City’s European unbeaten streak to an incredible 21 games.
Kevin De Bruyne noted Copenhagen’s game, stating, “We’ve played here a couple of times, the atmosphere is great, and you know they’re going to try and do everything.” However, he also emphasized City’s wasted opportunities, adding, “I think in the second half, we created many chances, and I believe we could have scored more.”
Manchester City will look to extend their two-goal lead in the second leg, which is slated for March 6 at the Etihad Stadium.
The English champions are on course to repeat last season’s unprecedented treble of Champions League, Premier League, and FA Cup wins, demonstrating their relentless concentration and commitment in the pursuit of football perfection.
