Manchester City emerged victorious with a 3-2 win against Red Star Belgrade in their final group stage match of the Champions League. In Belgrade tonight, Pep Guardiola opted to rest many first-team players, as Manchester City had already clinched the top spot in the group. Despite this, City’s team, featuring many junior and reserve players, showed impressive form and secured three points. Their motivation was evident from the start.
The game tilted in City’s favor in the 19th minute, with Nunes assisting Micah Hamilton for the opening goal, marking a remarkable debut for Hamilton in City’s first team. Red Star attempted counterattacks in the first half but struggled to break through. The second half saw Red Star adopting a more aggressive approach, creating several chances, but initially failing to score.
Manchester City extended their lead to 2-0 in the 62nd minute, courtesy of a spectacular solo effort from Oscar Bobb, who weaved through Red Star’s defense before finding the net. This goal spurred Red Star into action, and they intensified their attack. In the 76th minute, Red Star’s efforts paid off as Bukari set up Hwang, who expertly scored, narrowing the deficit to 2-1 amidst jubilant home fans.
As Red Star pressed for an equalizer, City exploited the spaces left behind. In the 86th minute, Hamilton won a penalty, which Kalvin Philipps converted, making it 3-1 for City. However, Red Star wasn’t done yet. They managed to pull another goal back in stoppage time, with Katai scoring to make it 3-2. Despite the late effort, Manchester City held on to win.
In the other group match, RB Leipzig defeated Young Boys 2-1, securing the second spot in the group and advancing to the Champions League knockout phase. Young Boys will continue in the Europa League, placed third in the group. Red Star, with only one point, bids farewell to both the Champions League and European competition for this season.
