Leverkusen Stuns Manchester City with Clinical 2-0 Victory at Etihad
Puntos Clave
- Alejandro Grimaldo's 23rd-minute opener and Patrik Schick's 54th-minute header gave Leverkusen both goals in a clinical away performance
- Goalkeeper Mark Flekken made nine saves to preserve the clean sheet despite Manchester City registering 19 shot attempts
- The defeat is a significant blow to City's hopes of securing a top-eight finish, while Leverkusen strengthens their push toward the knockout playoff positions from 22nd place
Manchester, England — Bayer Leverkusen delivered a masterclass in efficiency, stunning Manchester City 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday night in UEFA Champions League action. The German side made the most of their limited opportunities while frustrating the hosts in a result that could significantly impact the league phase standings.
Alejandro Grimaldo silenced the Etihad crowd in the 23rd minute, finishing with a left-footed shot from the center of the box to the bottom right corner. Ibrahim Maza delivered the cross from the right flank, which Christian Kofane deflected into Grimaldo's path for the opener. Despite City controlling much of the possession, Leverkusen's organized defense and clinical finishing gave the visitors a deserved lead at halftime.
Manchester City's manager made three substitutions at the break, introducing Phil Foden, Nico O'Reilly, and Jérémy Doku in search of an equalizer. However, the tactical adjustments backfired when Patrik Schick doubled Leverkusen's advantage in the 54th minute. The Czech striker converted with a well-placed header from the center of the box to the bottom right corner after Maza delivered another inviting cross.
The hosts pushed forward with renewed urgency following the second goal, creating several promising opportunities. Erling Haaland, introduced in the 65th minute, nearly pulled one back with a left-footed effort that required a fine save from Mark Flekken. The Leverkusen goalkeeper proved exceptional throughout the evening, making nine saves to preserve his clean sheet. City's frustration showed as they registered 19 shot attempts but couldn't find a breakthrough against the resolute German defense.
The result represents a significant setback for Manchester City, who entered the match in fourth position with 10 points from their first four matches. For Leverkusen, the three points propelled them from 21st position up to 13th place with eight points, significantly strengthening their chances of reaching the knockout playoff positions as the league phase reaches its midway point.