Manchester City’s explosive start
In the first half alone, Manchester City raced off to a roaring 3-0 lead against Al Ain, after two first half goals and a goal at the start of the second half. This performance completely reflects their control and experience. Ilykay Gundogan’s goal in the opening minutes turned the momentum of the match in City’s favour. After this, the team showered its attacks, which put the Al Ain team completely on the backfoot.
Gundogan’s free flow goal: luck or art?
The method with which Ilykay Gundogan netted within the ninth minute having scored through a corner kick left the spectators with surprise. The ball hit the floor and flew directly into the hole and it was not easy to say whether it was a sure show of ability or it was a game of chance. Yet, this goal was made even more special considering the smile on his face.
Guardiola’s strategy: Completely fresh XI
Before the match, Guardiola took a bold step and fielded a completely new XI. This decision was risky, but its effect was great. The team’s fresh players did not allow Al Ain to stay in the game with enthusiasm, energy and strategy. This shows how deep City’s bench strength is.
3-0 till halftime: Target of seven goals
With a 3-0 lead at the half time, beating a total of 7 goals, Manchester City was aware that it would win Group G, and it possibly could avoid a large club such as another team, Real Madrid. That is why in the second part of the game the team appeared even more aggressive however they lost one goal at the very end.
The magic of Oscar Bob and Ryan Cherki
The substitute players in the second half increased the pace of the game even more. Oscar Bob came from the right wing and put the ball in the net in a brilliant manner, making the score 5-0. Soon after this, Ryan Cherki also showed his magic and scored a goal with a precise shot.
Foden’s miss and Guardiola’s disappointment
The seventh goal was what everyone was watching after the sixth one, as it can lead the team to the first place in the group. As he laid the ball to Foden, all this made Erling Haaland look like scoring a goal. But Foden hit the ball at the keeper’s feet, which visibly annoyed Guardiola.
Al Ain’s strategy failed completely
Al Ain Though this team is regarded as one of the most successful clubs in the UAE, in this match they failed completely. Neither their defense worked, nor was there any control in the midfield. Even their supporters did not expect that their team would be able to do anything special, and that is what happened.
Hot weather did not become a hindrance
The game was held under the hot conditions in Orlando and the playing field was indoor and air-conditioned and this did not allow the game play to take a toll. The atmosphere at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium was only perfect and it is under this environment that Manchester City waged their best football.
The quote by Guardiola which says: “This time it is a one-way path”
In the post-match press conference, Guardiola is quoted saying, “Had we scored an extra goal, we would have had two alternatives. But this time we have got but one, to win.” In expressing such a statement, he reveals that he is clearly ready to deal with the hard matches ahead of him and he supports his players.
What’s next? Now will face Juventus
Now Manchester City’s next match in Group G will be against Juventus, which will decide who will face Real Madrid next. If City wins, they will get a chance to avoid Real Madrid. But a defeat will mean preparing for a big match soon.
Conclusion
The 6-0 that Manchester City managed was not so much about the result line but it demonstrated the strength of City when it comes to use of technique, fitness and the mental strength. Even though they lost the seventh goal, their confidence and the style makes them one of the best candidates to beat the Club World Cup.
