The gameplan executed to perfection. The inspirational team talk. The game-changing substitution.
Which game of Pep Guardiola and Nick Cushing’s eras was ‘the tactical masterclass’?
In our reborn fan feature, we asked you to share your nominations on Twitter using the hashtag #City30 and needless to say, you delivered.
We had several suggestions, including our masterful 1-0 victory at Chelsea, our thrilling 3-2 comeback win at Schalke and Derby Day delight at Old Trafford… but one suggestion had more votes than the rest: our Champions League triumph at Real Madrid.
Oh, what a night…
@ManCity v Real Madrid Pep Masterclass Nothing beats being there #City30 pic.twitter.com/tZN3NHg8hC
— Cormac McCann (@CormacMcCann1) March 31, 2020
With arguably our best ever performance in the competition, City came from a goal down to emerge victorious in the Bernabeu with two goals in the final 12 minutes of a thoroughly entertaining – and eventful! – encounter, which also saw Sergio Ramos sent off late on.
Having lost Aymeric Laporte to injury in the first half, it looked to be a miserable night for the visitors when Isco had opened the scoring for the 13-time tournament winners somewhat against the run of play but Guardiola’s men rallied to claim our first win over the Spanish giants.
Up until the opener, City had looked comfortable in possession, limiting the number of opportunities for the hosts and seamlessly transitioning our tactical formation. After the initial shock, the away side calmed, pushing for a potentially pivotal away goal.
Raheem Sterling’s introduction provided the much-needed spark, as the winger emerged from the bench to swing the game in City’s favour, winning the decisive penalty and playing a part in Gabriel Jesus’ leveller.
All eyes were on spot-kick taker Kevin De Bruyne given our recent record… but the Belgian stepped up to confidently roll the ball home, sending the travelling fans into raptures and registering a famous win on an unforgettable night for the Premier League Champions.
Thursday’s topic: our best Cup Final performance…
Wembley wonders! Which was your favourite of Pep or Nick’s tenure? Let us know your thoughts on Twitter @ManCity using #City30
