December 13, (THEWILL) – A Manchester City side showing nine changes from their usual starting XI, emerged victorious in their final 2023 UEFA Champions League group stage match, beating Red Star Belgrade 3-2 thanks to goals from youngsters, Micah Hamilton and Oscar Bobb.
With progression to the knockout phase already bagged, manager Pep Guardiola opted to give opportunities to youth prospects and squad players in the dead rubber fixture at Rajko Mitic Stadium. 20-year-old Academy graduate Hamilton marked his senior debut for the champions by superbly firing them ahead on 19 minutes.
Norwegian striker, Bobb, deputising for compatriot, Erling Haaland, added a second just after the hour mark after an impressive solo run and finish. New signing, Kalvin Phillips rounded off the victory with a late penalty, after Hamilton was fouled in the box.
The Serbian hosts did threaten a comeback when Hwang In-beom pulled one back with a neat strike. Aleksandar Katai then headed home a stoppage-time consolation for the winless bottom side. Yet, City’s makeshift lineup held on to make it a perfect six wins from six in Group G.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
