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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