UCL 2021-22: Pep's tactic proves better for Messi and company

Manchester City came back from a goal down to win the match by 2-1. Kylian Mbappe gave PSG the lead early in the second half but goals from Raheem Sterling and Gabriel Jesus secured victory for the hosts. City won Group A with a game to spare. However, PSG also through after RB Leipzig's won 5-0 at Club Brugge in their UCL 2021-22 match.

How the match went

Manchester City started the match with their usual dominant display, as they did not let PSG get hold of the edge; and denied Mauricio Pochettino's Paris Saint-Germain to get any clear-cut goal scoring chances. However, Pep Guardiola's side was punished early in the second half as Kylian Mbappe put the Ligue 1 leaders ahead. 

However, it wasn't hard for Manchester City as they came back strongly, with goals from Raheem Sterling and Gabriel Jesus changed the momentum of the game; to secure a place in the knockout phase with one more match left to play.

With this win, Manchester City finishes as the UCL 2021-22 group A leader; also PSG qualifying behind them due to RB Leipzig winning against Club Brugge.

Manchester City and their dominant display

Man City was again without the services of their key players Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden, and Jack Grealish; but still, they started strongly on the front foot and created several clear-cut opportunities as they dominated most of the opening 45 minutes. Pep Guardiola's tactical pressure was too much for Pochettino's side to take on, but they still managed to drag themselves to halftime. 

Rodri's brilliant efforts from Riyad Mahrez's free-kick but his powerful header was cleared off the line by Kimpembe. Mahrez was heavily involved in the action for City in the first half and the visitors needed Achraf Hakimi to divert the Algerian's curled effort over the crossbar. 

Manchester City was pinned on PSG as they did not let them get into the game. Ilkay Gundogan also had his moments, but his shot bolted off the crossbar. Riyad Mahrez also took his chances but unfortunately Navas lived up to his reputation and made a brilliant save; however, it was ruled offside. 

How did the 2nd half of the match go?

City's dominant display went all in vain as Kylian Mbappe scored early in the second half; with Messi laying off a brilliant ball to the unmarked Mbappe, who scored it past Ederson. 

However, the goal did not break down Pep Guardiola's side. They responded brilliantly and equalized just 12 minutes later when Sterling netted home with the layoff ball from Walker. They finally made the comeback after Mahrez's cross into the path of Jesus; who finished into the far corner to secure City's place in the last 16.