It was freezing at the Aspmyra Stadion in Bodø, Norway, as local club Bodø/Glimt hosted English Giants Manchester City on Matchday 7 of the UEFA Champions League last night. The Norwegian Club had to win to avoid elimination from the Champions League, while City were trying to cement their place in the top 8.
Max Alleyne, the 20-year-old centre back, was making his debut for Manchester City. It was a big occasion for the youngster, but unfortunately, he had a debut to forget.
Alleyne lost possession of the ball in a loose error, which resulted in Kasper Høgh producing a fine finish to give Bodø/Glimt the lead in the 22nd minute. Two minutes later, Max Alleyne was once again dispossessed rather easily, and once again, Kasper Høgh scored. A wry shake of the head from Erling Haaland said it all. City were already trailing by two goals in front of a partisan crowd.
Bodø/Glimt denied City and maintained the lead well into the second half. Gaining in confidence, the hosts went searching for another goal, and then Jens Petter Hauge showcased his incredible talent. The Norwegian international dribbled past a few City defenders and then unleashed a ferocious strike from the edge of the box to beat Donnarumma all ends up. It was a screamer, and City were virtually out of the game, down three goals by the 58th minute.
Rayan Cherki pulled one back for City with a powerful strike in the 60th minute. It was a terrific goal, but more was required from the Cityzens. Omar Marmoush was brought into play, but City were unable to score.
JP Hauge struck another brilliant curler, which hit the crossbar, and City escaped with only a 3-1 loss. It could have been worse. Rodri was sent off for two yellow cards, which added more misery to an already painful night for City.
Bodø/Glimt played brilliantly and were by far the better side on the day. Norway’s exhilarating World Cup Qualifying campaign, in which they did not lose a single contest, is a testament to the quality of talent they possess. No wonder Norway would be a tough opponent in the World Cup in June.
Max Alleyne had a terrible game, and Pep Guardiola’s hapless reactions said it all. Losing two straight matches ( one to Man United in the EPL and one last night) in four days has once again raised questions for City.
Bodø/Glimt, with their first win of the Champions League season, have survived elimination for the moment.
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