Etihad was set for a Champions League night against Celtic where only a perfect response was expected from Guardiola’s team after the drubbing received from Chelsea in the game before. Celtic have been running away domestically, being eight points clear at the top with three matches in hand over their nearest rival, so they arrived at Etihad on the last day seeking to cause an upset for a consolidation win even though the win would affect very less in terms of standings.
The match started with the away team having the upper hand with Caballero having to make early saves. Then the crucial point arrived where Roberts’ beautiful dribble down the right saw him being unchallenged by any of city players until late and the lad’s shot gave the Hoops an unlikely lead.
City’s response was quicker with Iheanacho being played through and the Nigerian kept his composure to score powerfully past Gordon. The match was quite balanced after that even though Gordon was less troubled than expected. Here are the player ratings for Celtic.
Craig Gordon – 6/10
Had to come up with decent saves as the game went but was troubled far less than expected. A good game for the keeper where one notable save was his quick reactions to deny Iheanacho from scoring again after the Nigerian flicked on from Sagna’s cross.
Mikael Lustig – 6/10
Visibly had a tough time against the pace and movement of City and got booked as well. He especially failed to contain Nolito down the right as the match proceeded but must have been a relieved man when the winger started playing more inward later on.
Erik Sviatchenko – 7.5/10
Dealt with Iheanacho well and had a solid night at the back. Impressive!
Jozo Simunovic – 7/10
Was a decent performance. Did well when Nolito moved inwards.
Emilio Izaguirre – 6.5/10
Had a tough game throughout and he did his job well. Had to make a crucial block against Nolito and was disciplined.
Scott Brown – 7/10
A passionate display laced with discipline and composure in the midfield. A delight to watch as he gives everything on the pitch.
Tom Rogic – 6/10
Looked to be all over the pitch and put in an energetic performance.
Stuart Armstrong – 6/10
Kept the pressing and chased the ball. Good work-rate of the ball and wasn’t rewarded for all the effort he put in. A tough night for the midfielder.
Patrick Roberts – 7/10
Deserved the goal after a sweet dribble down the right and maintained his composure to finish. Did decently after that against his former club. Must have enjoyed the goal!
James Forrest – 5/10
Was substituted early after an injury. Had a decent game until then.
Moussa Dembele – 7/10
Plenty of pace and trickery in the attacking sector and had a very good game putting the point across of his talent on the European stage again.
