Bola.net – Manchester City’s 2-1 victory at Real Madrid’s headquarters was one of their important results in the Champions League group phase. However, Pep Guardiola chose to highlight aspects of the team’s mentality rather than just the final result.
The Spanish coach assessed that this victory was born from resilience and the ability to recover after a difficult start to the match. City were under pressure for the first half hour, with Real Madrid dominating and creating constant threats.
Even so, Nico O’Reilly’s goal and Erling Haaland’s penalty changed the course of the match while securing three important points for the visitors.
Even though he is satisfied with the team’s character, Guardiola still gives an honest assessment that their performance is not yet at the level he demands. He emphasized that improvement remains a must if City wants to progress further.
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Guardiola admits that City lost class at the start of the match
Guardiola did not hide that City appeared below standard in the first 30 minutes. Real Madrid controlled the game and scored a quick goal through Rodrygo. This situation put City in a difficult position before finally being able to turn things around.
Guardiola reminded that they had performed better at the Bernabeu but did not win.
“We’ve been here several times and played much better than today and didn’t win,” said Guardiola.
“In the first 25 minutes, until Nico’s goal, they were much better than us. I will accept this result but I know we have to be better.”
Guardiola also emphasized that the demands of the competition will become increasingly tough as the season progresses.
“I know that in February and March, if we qualify, the level we need is higher than today,” he added.
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Doku, Foden and City’s Changing Rhythm
After taking over the momentum with two goals, City showed greater composure in controlling the rhythm of the match. Guardiola considers this change important in dealing with Real Madrid’s fast counterattacks, especially the threat from Vinicius Junior.
He highlighted how the return goal helped the team recover mentally. “Every time we lost the ball they threatened, especially with Vinicius, many times. It was great to score because it helped us get back into the game.”
Of the several players who stood out, Guardiola gave special praise to Jeremy Doku who appeared explosive on the wing.
“Jeremy Doku was outstanding, as were the other players too. It’s a good experience for us to be here, for many new players who are coming for the first time to this stadium, a very difficult place to play.”
