Manchester City easily defeated Turkish champions Galatasaray as they secured a spot in the Champions League’s top eight.
Pep Guardiola’s team had been at risk of a two-legged play-off in February after their unexpected loss to Bodo/Glimt but easily defeated Galatasaray before Benfica’s thrilling victory over Real Madrid guaranteed the Blues advanced directly.
City should have seized the advantage within the first three minutes versus Galatasaray, but Erling Haaland directed Rayan Ait-Nouri’s perfect cross wide from eight yards.
The Norwegian redeemed himself for that miss by connecting with Jeremy Doku’s through ball and delicately chipping a beautiful finish over the advancing Ugurcan Cakir, breaking his goal drought in open play.
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Nico O’Reilly’s powerful long-range shot was deflected over by Cakir, but the commanding home side extended their lead at the 30-minute mark as Doku set up Rayan Cherki, who drilled an unstoppable shot into the net.
After assisting on both goals, Doku limped off in the 37th minute with a calf injury and is expected to miss Sunday’s match against Tottenham.
Nigeria international Victor Osimhen had the most promising opportunities for Galatasaray, but his glanced header and shot were both denied by Gianluigi Donnarumma.
“It is better to rest,” said Guardiola. “In the end, the margins have been [close].
“It doesn’t matter if we play a playoff or don’t—it is arriving in that moment the best way with players fit and in the best condition.
“Considering how many top, top teams are out of the eight, I know how difficult it is. Even winning in Norway is difficult.”
