Manchester City Secure Knockout Berth Amid Doku Injury Concern
Manchester City progressed to the Champions League knockout stages with a professional 2-0 victory over Galatasaray at the Etihad Stadium, though the win was tempered by concern over Jeremy Doku's first-half injury.
Doku's Decisive Contribution Before Early Exit
The Belgian winger was instrumental in City's success, providing precise assists for both goals before limping off before half-time. Doku demonstrated his evolving game, combining his trademark pace with improved decision-making to create opportunities.
His departure cast a shadow over what had been an impressive individual performance, with Pep Guardiola now facing another selection headache as City's injury list grows.
Haaland Ends Drought as City Control Proceedings
Erling Haaland marked his return to scoring form with a delicate chip over Galatasaray goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir, ending a ten-game drought in open play. The Norwegian striker's 56th Champions League goal came in his 56th appearance, drawing him level with Ruud van Nistelrooy in the competition's all-time charts.
Rayan Cherki added City's second with a driven finish, providing further evidence of his growing importance since joining the club. The young Frenchman now has three Champions League goals this season, underlining his value to Guardiola's squad.
Midfield Adjustments Prove Effective
With Rodri suspended, Nico O'Reilly deputised effectively in midfield, testing the Galatasaray goalkeeper with a powerful long-range effort and drawing comparisons with former City captain Ilkay Gundogan. The German midfielder made his first return to the Etihad since leaving, receiving a warm reception from home fans despite an underwhelming performance for the visitors.
Rayan Ait-Nouri enjoyed a rare start at left-back and impressed going forward, while City's makeshift defence coped comfortably with limited Galatasaray pressure.
European Drama Unfolds Elsewhere
City's progression ultimately depended on results elsewhere, with Benfica's 4-0 victory over Real Madrid proving crucial. The Portuguese side's comprehensive win, masterminded by Jose Mourinho, ensured City finished eighth in the overall standings - just the right side of the qualification line.
Guardiola's side had climbed as high as fifth during the evening before Sporting CP's late winner against Athletic Bilbao pushed them down the table, creating nervous moments until Benfica's result confirmed their place in the last sixteen.
Mixed Emotions for Guardiola
While pleased with his team's performance and the result, Guardiola will be concerned about Doku's condition ahead of crucial domestic and European fixtures. The manager was able to introduce fit-again Nico Gonzalez for his first appearance in three weeks, a rare positive on the injury front.
Galatasaray offered little threat despite their impressive group stage campaign, with Victor Osimhen well marshalled by City's defence. The Turkish champions will nevertheless continue their European adventure in the knockout stages for the first time in twelve years.
City now face the prospect of a mid-season break in February, something Doku had identified as important before his injury. Their reward for qualification is a temporary respite from European football until March, though Guardiola will hope to have key players available when the competition resumes.
