Fresh from a derby day demolition on Sunday, Manchester City were back at the scoring act again this evening, dispatching FC Copenhagen by 5-0 in the Champions League.
The identity of the scorer of City’s first two goals of the evening should come as no surprise to anyone.
Erling Haaland followed up his hat-trick-scoring exploits from the weekend with a brace tonight, swinging a right boot at João Cancelo’s low delivery and snaffling in the rebound from a deflected Sergio Gómez shot, before earning himself a half-time substitution as his work was done.
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It was the Spaniard Gómez who was responsible for the Blue’s third goal, hitting an effort to a similar position from which he had forced the second, with his driving effort taking two deflections before eventually nestling in the net via the shin of Khocholava.
The second-half scoring was kicked off by Riyad Mahrez via the penalty spot, after Aymeric Laporte had been fouled in the area.
The Algerian stepped up and coolly slotted in his first goal of the season.
The final goal was a first too, as the instrumental Jack Grealish and Mahrez combined to tee up Julián Álvarez for his first Champions League goal.
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Here’s how we rated the players for Manchester City’s thumping Champions League victory over Copenhagen:
Ederson - 7
One of those nights we’re so used to seeing for Ederson, in which he might as well not have been there. No tests.
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João Cancelo - 7.5
Burst forward to provide the assist for the opener nicely. Committed a few fouls and was subbed to prevent a booking.
Rúben Dias - 7
Much like his goalkeeper, Dias had a forgettable night by virtue of Copenhagen’s lack of threat.
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Aymeric Laporte - 7
Another who had little to do over the course of a fitness-building first 90 minutes of the season, outside of a few good headers won.
Sergio Gómez - 7.5
A continuation of the impressive cameos he’s made off the bench so far. Forced two goals and showed really strong technique.
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Ilkay Gündogan - 8
Understated but crucial in the middle - is he Rodri in disguise? Dealt with counter attacks with ease.
Bernardo Silva - 7.5
Made a number of dangerous raids into the left half-space, often dancing his way around defenders.
Riyad Mahrez - 7.5
Finally grabbed his first goal of the season, but still needs to be more direct than what we saw tonight.
Jack Grealish - 8.5 (MOTM)
He may not have scored or assisted, but Grealish was the heartbeat behind the performance tonight. Drove with the ball so well and came so close to getting a goal with several attempts.
Julián Álvarez - 8
Popped up all over the pitch with relentless energy, and got his goal in the end from close range.
Erling Haaland - 8.5
45 minutes was all he needed to do his damage.
Two more goals to add to the ever-growing collection, and he’ll be well rested for Southampton on Saturday.
Subs:
Cole Palmer - 7
Made a trademark substitute appearance, wowing the Etihad crowd with his quick feet.
Rico Lewis - 6.5
Provided a couple of good defensive actions in his time on the pitch.
Josh Wilson-Esbrand - 6
Full of energy but not quite accuracy in the pass.
Topics: Manchester City, Champions League, Pep Guardiola, Erling Haaland, Jack Grealish
Hamish MacRae