Manchester City has made history in the UEFA Champions League (UCL) by becoming only the second English club to win all six of their group stage matches in a single campaign. Their latest victory came in a hard-fought 3-2 win against Red Star Belgrade, solidifying their dominance in Group G.
With both teams already securing their spots in the next round, the match was considered a dead rubber. However, City had a record on the line and was determined to make their mark. Manager Pep Guardiola opted for an experimental lineup, including 20-year-old debutant Micah Hamilton, who had been with the club since the age of nine.
Hamilton showcased his talent and composure on the big stage, scoring a stunning goal by maneuvering into the area and unleashing a ferocious drive into the top corner of the net. Red Star’s 17-year-old prodigy, Kosta Nedeljković, attempted to match Hamilton’s feat but could only curl his effort wide of the post.
City’s one-goal lead was far from comfortable, but Hamilton was determined to extend it. He came close to doubling his tally with a powerful strike that narrowly missed the target. However, it was another young star, Oscar Bobb, who ultimately doubled City’s advantage with a well-placed shot into the bottom corner of the net.
Red Star refused to go down without a fight, and their persistence paid off when Osman Bukari and Hwang In-beom combined to set up In-beom’s first-ever UCL goal. The hosts’ hopes were short-lived, though, as Nasser Djiga fouled Hamilton in the penalty area, leading to Kalvin Phillips stepping up to convert the spot-kick and score his first goal for the club.
Despite Aleksandar Katai’s late goal for Red Star in stoppage time, it was not enough to change the outcome of the match. Manchester City held on to secure their second win in a matter of days and concluded the group stage campaign on a high note.
The achievement of winning all six group stage matches is a testament to Manchester City’s dominance and consistency in the UEFA Champions League. It showcases the depth of talent within the squad and the tactical prowess of manager Pep Guardiola.
As the only second English club to achieve this feat, Manchester City has solidified their position as one of the top contenders in European football. Their impressive performance in the group stage will undoubtedly boost their confidence as they progress to the knockout stages of the tournament.
Manchester City’s success in the UEFA Champions League is a reflection of the club’s ambition and commitment to excellence. With their sights set on the ultimate prize, they will continue to strive for greatness and aim to etch their name in football history.