Manchester City have beaten Red Star Belgrade 3-1 in their opening Champions League match of 2023/24.

The Citizens enjoyed a relatively comfortable evening at the Etihad, despite falling behind in the game.

City had a staggering 22 shots in the first-half, but went in 1-0 down after Osman Bukari scored against the run of play.

But City were never going to be kept out for long in the second-half.

Julian Alavrez equalised with a beautiful goal, before adding a second with a free-kick that was spilled by goalkeeper Glazer.

Rodri then scored a sublime third, waltzing to the edge of the box and passing the ball into the far corner.

City were not totally ruthless tonight, but got the job done.

And three players impressed TNT Sports pundit Rio Ferdinand…

Rio Ferdinand hails three Man City players after 3-1 win over Red Star Belgrade

Speaking just after the final whistle, Ferdinand gave his thoughts about the game.

Manchester City v Newcastle United - Premier League
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And he was keen to praise three players for City that caught his eye.

He said: “There was a bump in the road today. They went 1-0 down. But the resilience and experience in this squad, they never panic. They coasted in the end.

“I think Phil Foden and Alvarez were especially outstanding today. Rodri again, looks like a secondary school player playing against primary school kids at times.

A job well done in the end for Man City

City took their time to get their eye in against Red Star.

But the pressure was always going to be too much for their Serbian opponents tonight.

Manchester City v FK Crvena zvezda: Group G - UEFA Champions League 2023/24
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The three players Ferdinand mentioned were all superb.

Alvarez in particular was amazing, and he is really stepping up to the plate in the absence of Kevin De Bruyne.

Rodri just dominated the game in midfield, and Foden, 23, was also excellent in everything he did.

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