Rabbi Matondo’s strike and Ed Francis’ deflected free-kick ensured Manchester City U19s started their UEFA Youth League campaign with a win over Feyenoord in Rotterdam.
The Welsh wide man opened the scoring on the half hour mark as he latched onto Benjamin Garre’s deflected through ball to fire a neat first-time finish past Ramon Ten Hove in the home side’s goal.
City were far from their best despite dominating the first half, with Brahim Diaz impressing, whilst Daniel Grimshaw produced a point-blank save from Joel Zwarts to keep scores level.
The Dutch outfit nearly levelled immediately after half time but Francis raced back to clear the ball off the line, before the young defender effectively ended the contest with 20 minutes remaining.
A mazy run from Diaz drew a foul and Francis’ free kick found the back off the net, courtesy of a deflection that left the opposition ‘keeper stranded.
Sunderland are up next for the EDS, at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday 16 September. Ticket are on sale now and a free for all Cityzens and Seasoncard holders.
