In the first leg of the UCL last eight, Manchester City managed to beat Atletico Madrid by a narrow score 1-0.
The exciting match between Manchester City vs Atletico Madrid in the UCL event is presented at the Etihad Stadium, Tuesday (5/4/2022).
In this match, Belgian midfielder Kevin de Bruyne became an important actor in Manchester City’s victory by contributing his only goal.
Kevin De Bruyne scored the only goal in the 70th minute.
As predicted, the match was tough because of the playing style of the two teams. Man City is far more dominant, but can’t break down Atletico’s layered defense easily.
There are not many surprises in the line-up that the two coaches fielded. Man City immediately tried to dominate as soon as the game started. Atletico looked comfortable waiting in their playing area.
Man City’s first opportunity came in the 13th minute. De Bruyne’s corner was met by Laporte’s header, unfortunately still off the mark. A minute later, Silva was brought down in the box but VAR said no foul.
Until the 25th minute, Atletico had trouble getting the ball. This match was a test of patience for Man City, who had more possession of the ball and locked up the opponent, but found it difficult to find a gap.
The pattern of the match did not change much 10 minutes later. Until the 35th minute, Man City was still having trouble dismantling the visitors’ defense. On the other hand, Atlético had several counter-attacks.
Man City players began to look frustrated. No really dangerous attacks, more shots from outside the box.
The first 45 minutes are over. Man City with 4 shots off target, none on target yet. The score 0-0 took the players to the locker room.
Entering the second half, Man City was still with the same problem. Atletico’s counter-attack actually looked more dangerous. Man City is running out of ideas.
The 55th minute, Man City finally got the first shot on target. Dead ball scheme, De Bruyne’s free kick to the bottom right side can still be ignored by Oblak.
Both coaches made a number of substitutions midway through the second half. Simeone pulled Koke and Griezmann. Guardiola withdrew Mahrez and Gundogan.
The impact of the substitution of players was immediately realized. Atlético’s defence. Foden sent the ball low between the legs of Reinildo. De Bruyne escaped control and shot low to beat Oblak.
Entering the final 10 minutes, Diego Simeone’s troops have yet to find a gap in the home team’s defense. No additional goals. The referee blows the long whistle. Score 1-0 to win Man City.
Manchester City’s narrow victory over Atletico Madrid will be a valuable asset for Man City for the second leg duel at the Wanda Metropolitano next week.
