Manchester City kept their UEFA Champions League (UCL) campaign alive with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Club Brugge on the final day of the league phase. Pep Guardiola’s side came from behind, scoring three second-half goals to secure their place in the next round of the competition.
For the 2022/23 UCL winners, finding themselves on the brink of elimination heading into Matchday 8 was almost unimaginable. However, they delivered when it mattered most, overcoming a first-half setback to seal a crucial win at the Etihad Stadium.
Manchester City’s Must-Win Challenge
Heading into their final Champions League league phase fixture, Manchester City needed a win at all costs to avoid an early exit from the tournament.
The Premier League champions faced an in-form Club Brugge, who had been impressive throughout the competition and were determined to hold onto their knockout-stage qualification spot.
City, known for their dominance in European football, had uncharacteristically struggled in this campaign. Their lack of creativity in the first half frustrated both the Etihad crowd and Pep Guardiola, who was visibly agitated on the sidelines.
A Nervy Start and Brugge’s Stunning Opener
Manchester City almost endured the worst possible start when a defensive mix-up gifted Christos Tzolis a clear chance on goal. However, the Brugge forward failed to capitalize, letting City off the hook.
City’s growing desperation was evident as they pushed forward. İlkay Gündoğan thought he had given his side the lead, only for the offside flag to cancel out his goal.
As the first half progressed, City’s struggles continued. Their attacks lacked sharpness, and they failed to break down Brugge’s well-organized defense.
Just when it seemed the game would be goalless at halftime, Brugge stunned the home crowd. Raphael Onyedika made a late run to the back post, slamming home an opener just before the break.
The goal left Manchester City with a mountain to climb, knowing they had only 45 minutes to save their Champions League campaign.
Kovacic’s Moment of Magic Sparks City’s Comeback
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Manchester City came out in the second half with renewed energy. They needed a hero, and Mateo Kovačić stepped up with a moment of brilliance.
.@mateokovacic8 with a superb solo run to kickstart the comeback! pic.twitter.com/kBu34WTn3D
— Manchester City (@ManCity) January 30, 2025
Just minutes after the restart, the Croatian midfielder picked up the ball from the halfway line, drove forward, and curled a sensational strike into the bottom corner.
The Etihad erupted, sensing that this could be the turning point in their must-win game.
Gvardiol’s Cross Forces an Own Goal to Put City Ahead
With momentum now on their side, City intensified their attack. Brugge, who had defended resiliently in the first half, began to crack under pressure.
City’s persistence paid off in the 62nd minute when Joško Gvardiol delivered a dangerous cross into the box. Brugge’s Joel Ordoñez misjudged the ball, inadvertently turning it into his own net.
Pure passion from @JoskoGvardiol4 pic.twitter.com/T2ebf5LtnL
— Manchester City (@ManCity) January 30, 2025
With City now leading 2-1, the relief was evident on Guardiola’s face. His team had completed the turnaround, but they still had to see out the match to ensure progression.
Savinho Secures City’s Victory Amidst Late Drama
Despite their lead, City knew that one mistake could undo all their hard work. They had a golden opportunity to put the game beyond reach when Erling Haaland found himself one-on-one with Simon Mignolet. However, the Norwegian striker shockingly missed.
The rebound fell to Savinho, who looked set to score, but Brandon Mechele made a heroic goal-line clearance, keeping Brugge in the game.
Savinho seals our spot in the play-offs! pic.twitter.com/mjSA4rIWIW
— Manchester City (@ManCity) January 30, 2025
However, Savinho was not to be denied. Minutes later, he timed his run perfectly, latched onto John Stones’ exquisite pass, and drilled home at the near post, making it 3-1 to City.
Both Teams Secure Knockout Qualification
Even after conceding, Brugge remained in the 24th and final knockout spot. They knew that only a dramatic shift in results elsewhere could eliminate them.
With the outcome effectively sealed, the closing moments of the match turned into a cautious possession game. City kept the ball, while Brugge accepted their fate, knowing they had done enough to stay in the tournament.
Ultimately, City’s hard-fought victory ensured they progressed, while Brugge also secured their place despite the defeat.
Key Stats from Manchester City vs Club Brugge
- Goals:
- Raphael Onyedika (Brugge) – 45’
- Mateo Kovačić (City) – 50’
- Joel Ordoñez (OG, Brugge) – 62’
- Savinho (City) – 83’
- Shots: Manchester City 18 – Club Brugge 6
- Possession: Manchester City 67% – Club Brugge 33%
- Pass Accuracy: Manchester City 91% – Club Brugge 80%
- Corners: Manchester City 9 – Club Brugge 3
What’s Next for Manchester City?
With Manchester City securing their place in the next round, they will now await the knockout-stage draw. Guardiola’s side will need to find their best form if they are to compete for another Champions League title.
The Champions League knockout stage draw will take place soon, determining City’s next opponent as they aim to continue their European journey.
For Brugge, despite the defeat, they can take pride in their performances in the league phase, knowing they will have another chance to fight in the knockouts.
Stay tuned for more Champions League updates as the race for European glory intensifies!
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