Coach of Manchester City Pep Guardiola has praised the efforts of Belgium side Club Brugge despite their 1-3 loss to his team in the final round of games in the group stage of the UEFA Champions League.
Guardiola’s team rallied back from a goal down to claim a 3-1 win, which secured their passage to the play off for the round of 16. Club Brugge also advanced despite the defeat.
Looking back at how they fought their way back into the game, Guardiola praised the organization of the visitors which he said they were prepared for knowing fully well that they haven’t lost in over 22 games, predicting a bright future for their young players which includes Nigeria international Raphael Onyedika who scored their lone goal.
“The first-half was so academic, we didn’t have the spark to do it against a team that defends really well and especially with the ball they do really, really well. They are fast, young and with a big future. It’s not a surprise that in the last 21, 22 games they have been unbeaten. That means a lot of games and we knew it.
Both teams will know their opponent on Friday when the draws for the play off will be made. It will be a two legged game which will be played on home and away basis in February.
