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Manchester City’s Champions League campaign has taken an unexpected and disappointing turn this season. After being favorites to qualify comfortably, the Cityzens now face a tense final match in the revamped 36-team group stage, with their place in the knockout phase hanging by a thread. Here’s what Manchester City need to do to secure their spot in the Champions League play-offs.
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City’s Struggles in the New Champions League Format
Manchester City were among the favorites to advance in this year’s Champions League, especially after their European success last season. However, their form in the competition has been far from convincing. Following a 4-2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, City now sit in 25th place, just outside of the qualification spots, heading into Matchday 8. A win over Club Brugge is their only hope to ensure progression to the knockout stage.
How Manchester City Can Qualify for the Champions League Playoffs
Qualification is simple for City: a win against Club Brugge at the Etihad Stadium will secure their place in the play-offs. This victory will see them leapfrog Club Brugge, finishing in 24th place at a minimum. However, with only two points separating them from the play-off places, any result less than a win would eliminate Pep Guardiola’s side from the competition.
Historically, a home win against Club Brugge seems likely, as the Belgian side has only reached the knockout phase of the Champions League once. But City’s inconsistent form this season—both domestically and in Europe—means nerves will be high at the Etihad.
City’s Record Against Club Brugge
Manchester City’s record against Club Brugge provides some reassurance. The two teams met in the 2021/22 Champions League group stage, with City winning 5-1 in Brugge and following it up with a 4-1 victory at home. Though many of the goalscorers from those matches have since left the club, including Cole Palmer, Kyle Walker, Joao Cancelo, and Riyad Mahrez, Phil Foden remains the sole goalscorer from the home win still in City’s squad.
City’s overall record against Belgian teams is also positive, with only one defeat in eight matches, a 2-0 loss to Standard Liege in the 1978/79 UEFA Cup.
Can Manchester City Overcome Their European Struggles?
As Manchester City faces their crucial final match in the league phase, fans are left wondering if the side can finally break their European curse. With a win, City can secure their qualification and regain confidence ahead of the knockout phase. But will they do it? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
