Manchester City kicked off the defence of their Champions League title with a 3-1 win over Red Star Belgrade last night.
Pep Guardiola’s side were convincing winners in the end, after somehow falling behind in the game.
City had a plethora of shots at goal in the first-half, but could not find a breakthrough.
Just before half-time, Osman Bukari scored against the run of play when he sprung the offside trap and finished past Ederson.
In the second-half though, City hit back immediately through Julian Alvarez, whose first of two goals was sublime.
Rodri then scored a brilliant third to kill the game.
There were lots of great individual displays last night, including Phil Foden, who caught the eye of Matheus Nunes…
Matheus Nunes sends message to Phil Foden after Man City 3-1 Red Star
This was a busy performance from Foden, who got on the ball a lot.
The England international found pockets of space all night, getting on the half-turn and driving forwards.
He was playing in an inside left position, with Sergio Gomez playing very high at left-back to provide the width. Jeremy Doku would then operate as a left winger.
Foden provided the assist for Rodri’s goal, although it was a fairly simple pass back to the Spaniard, who produced a simply delightful finish.
But it was a great display from the 23-year-old, who appears to be in the zone in these opening weeks of the new season.
After the game, he took to Instagram, writing ‘Champions League nights are back…’
Foden’s fine display was not lost on Matheus Nunes, who commented ‘Quality’.
Nunes was also very good last night on his first start for the club since his move from Wolves.
Phil Foden looking the business for City
Foden looked really good last night.
Most of City’s players did, with Red Star simply outclassed on the night.
But overall it’s been a great start for the youngster in 2023/24.
Last term was a frustrating one for Foden with injuries and being unable to break into the team.
But he appears to have his mojo back, which is very welcome given the absence of Kevin De Bruyne.
