Manchester City got their
European campaign underway through a bumper clash with Bayern Munich. The
English Champions played FC Bayern 4 times before last night, with winning 2
and losing 2 matches. The Citizens once again drew in a group of death and
their task of achieving something worthwhile this year in UEFA Champions League
became much more difficult for Pellegrini’s men.
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FC Bayern were without several
regular starters due to injuries. Schwienstieger, Ribery, Thiago and several
other key players missed the match. Robben also lacked full match fitness and
was forced to sit on the bench for the German side. As a result, Pep Guardiola
was forced to field a rather cautious line-up with 6 defensive players in
it.
Manchester City on the other side
had less problems in terms of injuries. Yaya Toure started in Allianz Arena
after missing out on a 2-2 draw with Arsenal last Saturday. But their Manager
was missing on the side-lines due to a touch line ban imposed by UEFA.
FC Bayern started the match in a
brilliant manner. The first 5 minutes made Manchester City realise, how
difficult it’ll be for them to get 3 points from Allianz Arena. Lewandowski and
Muller combined to create first real threat for the English side but Muller
lost his target there. Muller was looking lively and created another golden
chance in 19th minute but once again Hart was there for the rescue.
Manchester City looked out of
colours through-out the match. Dzeko who was starting in place of Aguero didn’t
create much troubles for Manuel Neuer. Yaya Toure was out of form and with the
likes of Alonso and Lahm in the opposing team, Midfield battle was clearly won
by the hosts. But Fernandinho was once again star performer for Manchester City
as his physical threat keeps Bayern from scoring.
Second half changed nothing in
terms of tactics. When Robben was substituted on in 75th minute, Alarm bell
gone ringing for Clichy and entire city squad. The Dutch Winger looked sharp
from the word go and looked a threat. After Joe Hart made a brilliant save of
Boateng’s shot, the former City Player came back with an even strong reply. His
powered shot took a deflection and Hart was history. FC Bayern were too strong
for Manchester City in the end and Pellegrini’s men have to work very hard in
coming matches if they want to achieve something meaningful.
Amir Bashir follow him on Twitter.
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