The Ukranians scored a goal in each half to give the Blues a mountain to climb in the return leg next Thursday, but the Blues’ boss is adamant the tie is only at half-time.
“In football, anything can happen and though losing 2-0 is not a good result, we will do our best in the second leg,” said Mancini.
“If we want to get into the quarter-finals, we have to play better than we did and defend better. I think we played well and controlled most of the game, but made two mistakes - two big mistakes - and paid the price.”
Mancini refused to point the finger at any of his players for either of the goals conceded and thought City his were a shade unlucky not to get on the scoresheet after enjoying plenty of possession.
“Kyiv are a good side, but I felt we deserved a goal at least on the night,” he said. “We didn’t pay enough attention at vital times and they took advantage so we have made life difficult for ourselves.
“You can’t concede goals like that if you want to be successful in the Europa League. Kyiv have the edge now and will be favourites to go through, but this match is far from over.”
