Manchester City defeat Atletico Madrid with De Bruyne goal

Manchester City (England) took a small advantage in the first leg of the quarter-finals of the Champions League, this Tuesday (5), after a goal by Belgian Kevin De Bruyne in the 25th minute of the second half gave the English team a 1-0 victory over Atletico Madrid (Spain) in Manchester.

FULL TIME | We take a 1-0 lead to Madrid ????

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— Manchester City (@ManCity) April 5, 2022

It was a result City had to look for against an Atletico team that clearly traveled to England with the aim of simply avoiding opportunities from Pep Guardiola’s side and that failed to produce a single shot on target.

Argentine Diego Simeone’s team frustrated City throughout the first half with their deep defence, and relying only on the occasional counterattack to threaten the hosts.

City rotated the ball with their usual skill and made it difficult for Atletico to break out of their defensive formation.

The goal came in a play initiated by Phil Foden, who entered with Jack Grealish and Gabriel Jesus during the match. He drew three markers in his direction and landed a perfect pass to De Bruyne, who overcame goalkeeper Jan Oblak with a cross finish.

The return match will take place at the Wanda Metropolitano in Madrid on Wednesday of next week, but before that City have a crucial clash at home with rivals Liverpool on Sunday (10).

De Bruyne said it was difficult to break through the defense of a team that plays with so many players behind the ball.

“Is very difficult. They played with almost five in defense and five in midfield. I recommend anyone to say something […] try to play like that on the training ground”, said the Belgian.

“I expect something similar over there. If the game is tight, they will have to attack a little more,” she concluded.

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(Brazil Agency)