City clocked up their first win in the Champions League thanks to an injury time strike from Sergio Aguero. Roberto Mancini called it “lucky” and the overall performance left a lot to be desired, but our Champions League campaign is finally up and running.
As expected Mancini made several changes from the side that trounced Aston Villa. Dzeko and Nasri were both restored to the attack, while Zabaleta and Kolarov came in at full-back.
Continue Reading →
Hart – Made a poor start palming out Rossi’s shot into the path of Cani for the opener. Otherwise dealt well with Villarreal’s efforts. 6
Zabaleta – So nearly the hero with a header in injury time. Showed his spirit by going on to provide the cross for Aguero’s winner. 7
Continue Reading →
City take on Villarreal in real need of a victory to kickstart their Champions League campaign. The good news is that the Spaniards look the weakest team in the group, and have players missing through injury.
They don’t appear to be of the same calibre as Napoli and City, with the likes of Aguero and Silva back in the side, should claim the win. Of course European games are harder to predict than domestic fixtures. City’s travails in the Europa League are testimony to that.
Continue Reading →
City’s run of good results against Villa continued in what was ultimately a comfortable victory. Mario Balotelli broke the deadlock with a delicious bicycle kick, and another second half blitz was capped by James Milner’s finest goal for the club.
The victory moved City to the top of the Premier League, a fitting reward for the club’s best ever start to a top flight campaign. One difference from last season is how Mancini can rest key players and still get the result. If we’re to mount a title challenge this will be a key factor.
Continue Reading →