- Man City beat Copenhagen to reach the Champions League quarter-finals
- Manuel Akanji, Julian Alvarez and Erling Haaland all scored in the first half
- Manchester City v Man United is a derby in name only, we know the winner – it’s like an F1-style procession – Listen to the It’s All Kicking Off podcast
Manchester City eased into the Champions League quarter-finals and geared up for their showdown against Liverpool in style after beating Copenhagen.
With the weekend’s crucial trip to Anfield now just around the corner, Pep Guardiola rang the changes as his side looked to build on their 3-1 last-16 aggregate lead.
In the end, the scoreline was a repeat of the first leg, with Manuel Akanji, Julian Alvarez and the ever-ruthless Erling Haaland all on target inside the first half.
The result means City’s bid to retain the famous jug-eared trophy remains on track.
Here, Mail Sport’s JOE BERNSTEIN has rated their players’ performances…
EDERSON – 7
Sometimes has to stand aside for Stefan Ortega in cup games but Guardiola didn’t want to take any chances. The Brazilian kept his concentration well, in particularly making a fine save from Magnus Mattsson when he could have become bored with City enjoying 70 per cent possession.
RICO LEWIS – 6.5
The homegrown youngster didn’t try anything spectacular but is comfortable on the ball to keep City’s passing carousel moving. A firm favourite with the fans who were disappointed that he was denied by the crossbar late on.
MANUEL AKANJI – 7.5
Opened the scoring with a rocket volley from a corner for his first goal of 2024. Able to fit in anywhere along City’s backline and was a secure presence on this occasion in the centre of defence.
RUBEN DIAS – 7
Captain for the night and his drive and passion ensured there would be no chance of complacency from City despite having a 3-1 lead from the first leg. Made way for John Stones with the job done.
JOSKO GVARDIOL – 6
Guardiola insists on playing one of the world’s best centre-halves at left-back and the Croatian still doesn’t look comfortable. It’ll be interesting if next season, Guardiola persists with him in the same position. Was dragged around by Copenhagen’s mobile attackers.
RODRI – 7
So important to City that Pep Guardiola hooked him at half-time with the tie one so he’s fresh for bigger tests ahead. Not just skilful, his physical presence in the penalty area distracted Copenhagen to allow Akanji to score the opener.
MATEO KOVACIC – 6
Neat and tidy but doesn’t affect the game as much as the other players. Guardiola clearly considers him an upgrade on Kalvin Phillips but he failed to take this opportunity by the scruff of the neck.
MATHEUS NUNES – 6.5
Carries an extra yard of pace which helps City in the wide positions. We’re all looking for clues regarding Sunday’s line-up. Could the fact he was withdrawn after 74 minutes an indication he starts at Anfield?
OSCAR BOBB – 7
Another youngster who is going to do big things at City. Bobb was given the prime No10 role with Phil Foden and Kevin De Bruyne and showed balance and creativity. He recycled the ball in the build-up for Alvarez’s second goal which effectively ended the contest.
JULIAN ALVAREZ – 7
Fortunate to score with a shot that slipped through the fingers of Kamil Grabara but his ferocious work-rate works well with City’s technical geniuses around him. Injuries to Doku and Grealish give him a chance of starting at Anfield.
ERLING HAALAND – 7
Some surprise he played for so long given Sunday’s showdown against Liverpool but scored his customary clinical goal to justify the selection. Looks ready for the big one and has now equalled Sergio Aguero’s career total of 41 goals in European competitions.
SUBSTITUTES
Sergio Gomez (for Rodri 45) 6
John Stones (for Dias 68) 6.5
Micah Hamilton (for Nunes 74) 6
Jacob Wright (for Haaland 88)
Olivia Martin is a dedicated sports journalist based in the UK. With a passion for various athletic disciplines, she covers everything from major league championships to local sports events, delivering up-to-the-minute updates and in-depth analysis.
