Manchester City‘s winless streak extended to six games as Feyenoord Rotterdam staged one of the all-time comebacks in UEFA Champions League history. Although three goals down by the 75th minute, the Dutch side rallied and erased the deficit, taking advantage of defensive lapses from the City backline.
This unexpected twist left fans and analysts in awe, marking one of the most dramatic turnarounds in recent Champions League memory.
Lineups
Manchester City started with Ederson in goal, Kyle Walker, Ruben Dias, Aymeric Laporte, and Joao Cancelo in defense, Rodri, Kevin De Bruyne, and Bernardo Silva in midfield, and an attacking trio of Riyad Mahrez, Raheem Sterling, and Phil Foden.
Feyenoord fielded Justin Bijlow in goal, Lutsharel Geertruida, Marcos Senesi, Gernot Trauner, and Tyrell Malacia in defense, Orkun Kökçü, Fredrik Aursnes, and Jens Toornstra in midfield, with Alireza Jahanbakhsh, Bryan Linssen, and Luis Sinisterra leading the attack.
How the Match Unfolded
Manchester City began the match with high intensity and quickly took control. Kevin De Bruyne opened the scoring in the 15th minute with a powerful shot from outside the box. Riyad Mahrez doubled the lead in the 30th minute, converting a well-placed cross from Joao Cancelo. Raheem Sterling made it 3-0 in the 55th minute, finishing off a slick team move.
The match seemed all but over until Feyenoord found a lifeline in the 76th minute when Bryan Linssen capitalized on a defensive error to pull one back. The goal started the journey to the remarkable comeback. In the 82nd minute, Alireza Jahanbakhsh made it 3-2 with a well-taken strike.
City’s defence continued to crumble under pressure, and in the 89th minute, Tyrell Malacia equalized with a stunning long-range effort.
Post-Match Analysis
Manchester City’s collapse revealed their defensive lapses and lack of composure under pressure. Notwithstanding their commanding lead, the team failed to maintain stability, allowing Feyenoord to exploit their weaknesses.
The city’s inability to close out games remains a concern, as its winless streak now stands at six matches.
Pep Guardiola’s men have struggled to maintain form and consistency, particularly in defense. Glaring lapses in concentration and poor decision-making led to unnecessary goals conceded.
City’s midfield, usually a stronghold, appeared vulnerable as they lost control in the game’s crucial moments. This performance raises questions about their mental resilience and tactical adaptability.
On the other hand, Feyenoord was resilient and had a fighting spirit. They were determined to keep pushing even when three goals down. The coach’s tactical changes paid off, and the players executed the game plan to perfection in the final stages. Feyenoord’s ability to exploit Manchester City’s defensive lapses was key to their comeback.
What the Coaches Said
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola spoke with Amazon Prime after the match: “The game was fine at 3-0, but then we conceded a lot of goals because we were not stable. We lost a lot of games lately, fragile and of course, we needed a victory. We do well but don’t win games. Right now, I am not ready to think about that [needing to win the final three games to finish top eight]. We have to recover and prepare for the next game.”
City’s Nathan Ake, who was substituted in the second half, also commented: “[It’s a] Difficult [feeling]. [We were] 3-0 up, playing quite well and it all changed. You have to stay strong mentally. We invited more pressure. I think we did give it away. It feels like a defeat. It’s a tough night.”
Player of the Match
Bryan Linssen won the Player of the Match. His goal in the 76th minute ignited Feyenoord’s comeback, and he was instrumental in maintaining the pressure on City’s defense, leading to the remarkable turnaround.
What Next
Manchester City must regroup and address their defensive issues as they prepare for their match with Liverpool in the EPL. This match will be another test of their ability to bounce back from setbacks and regain form. Feyenoord, meanwhile, will try to build on this momentum when they face their next opponents in the Champions League. This incredible comeback boosts their confidence, and they will look to continue their upward trajectory. I wish them well.
Current League Table
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