Manchester City etched history when they won their first competitive meeting against Barcelona at the 6th time of asking. It will be an understatement to say that City eventually battered Barcelona and in reality the Nou Camp outfit survived an embarrassing scoreline due to the profligacy of the City attackers. The scoreline heading into half-time was 1-1 and the second half was thoroughly City’s and goals from De Bruyne and Gundogan gave them a comfortable 3-1 win.
We take a look at how the City players rated in their finest European performance.
CABALLERO- 7.5/10
Was a more than able replacement of Bravo and although he did have his couple of customary misplaced passes, they did not amount to any damage. The more direct approach in the second half suited him and he also commanded the area well.
ZABALETA- 8/10
A warrior of the highest order on the pitch. Out for a couple of weeks and with a single training session under his belt, he stood up to Neymar and was the winner on the night. A true City legend.
OTAMENDI- 8/10
Had his customary love affair with the pitch hitting the deck a couple of times but overall was dominant and stepped out to intercept well. A strong display by the Argentine.
STONES- 8/10
Again, showed glimpses of his calmness and ball playing skills under pressure and stepped out successfully on occasions but almost gifted Barca a goal in a brain-dead instance where he kicked the ball to Suarez with the defence non-existent.
KOLAROV- 8/10
City fans had nightmares seeing Kolarov up against Messi but the Serbian acquitted himself well. Was tight to his man and did not have any lapse in concentration and even ventured forward on several occasions. Will give him a lot of confidence.
FERNANDINHO- 8/10
Typical Fernandinho display where he mopped up all and sundry and dictated play well at the centre of the park. Showed the ability to receive the ball under pressure.
