Manchester City Strengthen UCL Hopes With 2–1 Win Over Aston Villa
Manchester City edged past Aston Villa 2–1 at the Etihad Stadium, taking a vital step toward securing Champions League qualification and staying in the Premier League title race. Goals from Phil Foden and Julian Álvarez sealed the win, but a late injury to Rodri cast a shadow over the result.
⚽ Match Summary
- Phil Foden opened the scoring with a thunderous long-range strike, giving City the early lead.
- Villa responded before halftime, capitalizing on a defensive lapse.
- In the second half, Julian Álvarez stepped up with the decisive goal, finishing coolly after a well-timed pass from Bernardo Silva.
City controlled possession but were pushed hard by a determined Aston Villa side, who created several dangerous moments on the counterattack.
🚨 Injury Concern for Rodri
The win came with concern as Rodri was substituted in the 82nd minute with a suspected groin injury. The midfielder is set to undergo fitness tests, and his availability for City’s upcoming UEFA Champions League semi-final is now in doubt.
“We didn’t want to take risks with Rodri,” said Pep Guardiola. “He felt something, and we’ll assess him tomorrow.”
🔜 What’s Next?
Manchester City face Tottenham next week in a must-win match that could prove crucial in the Premier League title race. With UCL ambitions also on the line, the next few fixtures are season-defining for Pep Guardiola’s squad.
Can City maintain momentum in both the league and Europe despite Rodri’s injury?
Share your thoughts in the comments and follow for more updates on City’s title and Champions League push.
