City through to next round of Champions League

City progressed to the knockout round of the Champions League after a 1 -1 draw at Borussia Monchengladbach.

The Blues trailed after a strike from Brazilian striker Rafael fired the home side in front after 15 minutes of the first half. City struck back when David Silva was able to turn home a low cross from playmaker Kevin De Bryune at the near post to bring the game back to level terms before the break.

A refreshed side in the second half, City began to look more dangerous after the dismissal of the home side’s skipper Lars Stindl in the 51st minute for a second bookable offence. City were soon brought down to 10 men after midfielder Fernandinho was booked again after pulling on goal scorer Rafael’s shirt in the 62nd minute.

Both teams brought back on a level playing field failed to make the most of the extra space on the pitch with the game finishing level. Despite the draw and coupled by Barcelona’s 2 -0 away win against Celtic, Guardiola’s men progressed into the round of 16 finishing in second place behind Pep’s old club who have four more points.

City will go into their next Champions League game against Celtic at the Etihad on the 6th December, knowing that their place in the next round is secured.

Andrew Watson

• Localsport