Besides the goalless draws, this week’s round of Champions League second legs hosted a game with plenty of drama, even though Schalke’s defeat to Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City was an anticipated result. There was drama indeed, at least in terms of penalties, VAR decision, a red card and changes in the lead throughout the game.
Manchester City had a much more difficult task against Schalke than they expected. Although they took the lead, the German side were ahead at half time. Fortunately, the English champions were able to change the game with two late goals and ended up with a 3-2 win. There are plenty of talking points, but this tactical analysis will be focusing on Manchester City’s perspective.
Manchester City’s lineup
There were no surprises in the starting XI since Pep Guardiola put full strength on the pitch. He also deployed the usual 4-3-3 formation as Fernandinho paired up with Nicolas Otamendi in central defence due to the injury of John Stones. Another centre-back, Aymeric Laporte, replaced Mendy in the left full-back position.
Ilkay Gündigan took the lone pivot role in midfield behind two creators, Kevin de Bruyne and David Silva.
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