Last updated on January 30, 2025
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Savinho sealed the win for Man City.
Image credit: Manchester City
Manchester City staged a second-half comeback to defeat Club Brugge 3-1, avoiding an early Champions League exit on a dramatic night at the Etihad Stadium—one that started with an unexpected fire outside the stadium.
A Nervy Start and a Shock Lead for Brugge
Before kickoff, an unexpected fire at a merchandise stand outside the stadium added to the tense atmosphere.
Though quickly contained, it set the tone for an uneasy first half for the hosts.
Brugge arrived in Manchester unbeaten in 21 games, showing no fear against the reigning champions.
Their confidence paid off just before halftime when Raphael Onyedika slotted home Christos Tzolis’ cross, putting City in trouble.
Kovacic Leads the Fightback
.@mateokovacic8 with a superb solo run to kickstart the comeback! 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/kBu34WTn3D
— Manchester City (@ManCity) January 30, 2025
Needing a win, Pep Guardiola made a crucial halftime change, bringing on Savinho for Ilkay Gündogan.
The move paid off when Mateo Kovacic equalized in the 53rd minute with a precise strike from the edge of the box.
Brugge, however, nearly restored their lead, with Tzolis forcing big saves from Ederson and testing City’s defense.
Own Goal and Savinho’s Strike Seal the Win
City finally edged ahead when Joško Gvardiol’s low cross was turned into the net by Joel Ordonez, giving them a crucial 2-1 advantage.
The relief was complete in the 77th minute, when Savinho controlled John Stones’ cross and fired home to secure City’s place in the next round.
