Julián Álvarez Rescues Manchester City in 3-1 Victory Over Red Star Belgrade Following Early Scare

In a match where Erling Haaland had an off day, Julián Álvarez played the hero, guiding the defending Champions League holders to a 3-1 win over Red Star Belgrade after a nail-biting opening night of their European title defense.

Despite complete domination in the first half, with Haaland hitting the crossbar and missing two chances, City found themselves shocked right before half-time when Osman Bukari scored a goal seemingly out of nowhere. Initially called offside but awarded by VAR, it put City on the brink of becoming only the second team in Champions League history to lose their opening game as titleholders.

However, their fears were quickly eased by a beautiful goal from Álvarez, who delicately touched the ball into the net from a Haaland pass. Álvarez then took the lead with a free-kick that Red Star’s goalkeeper, Omri Glazer, should have kept out. Rodri, the hero of the Champions League final in Istanbul, sealed the win with a skillful move and a curled finish.

Goalkeeper & Defense:

Ederson (6/10): Little to do overall, but displayed quick decision-making when coming out of his area in the second half.

Kyle Walker (7/10): Alert, physically dominant, and influential, justifying his new contract.

Rúben Dias (5/10): Played Bukari onside for Red Star’s goal but was otherwise solid.

Nathan Aké (6/10): Dominant in defense and contributed to the attack.

Sergio Gomez (4/10): Frequently got forward but struggled with passing and decision-making.

Midfield:

Bernardo Silva (5/10): Lacked spark and was substituted late in the first half due to an injury problem.

Rodri (8/10): Outstanding performance throughout, even after an early yellow card, with a classy dribble and finish.

Matheus Nunes (6/10): A solid full debut, aside from the header that led to Red Star’s goal.

Attack:

Phil Foden (8/10): Energetic, reactive, and instinctive, providing key passes and ball recovery.

Erling Haaland (6/10): Disappointing finishing but compensated with a marvelous assist for Álvarez’s first goal.

Julián Álvarez (9/10): Turned the game around with two goals, showcasing both skill and determination.

Substitutes & Manager:

Jeremy Doku (6/10): Added thrust and unpredictability to City’s attack.

Manuel Akanji (6/10): Provided balance after replacing the erratic

Gomez.Oscar Bobb (N/A): Made his Champions League debut in the 84th minute, showing promise.

Kalvin Phillips (N/A): Entered in the 84th minute.

Rico Lewis (N/A): Also came on in the 84th minute.

Pep Guardiola (7/10): Made proactive substitutions, giving chances to Gomez and Nunes in their full debut.