UCL: Guardiola sees 3-1 come-back against Red Star Belgrade as ‘useful test’

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola believes his team were given a useful test after coming from behind to begin their title defense.

Guardiola’s team’s journey in the 2023/24 Champions League campaign got off to a challenging start as they rallied from a halftime defeat to secure a 3-1 victory over Red Star Belgrade.

The Etihad Stadium witnessed a stunning twist as Serbian champions, Red Star, claimed a surprising lead with Osman Bukari’s goal just before halftime.

However, showing their team spirit as in their last Premier League clash against West Ham, City pulled a comeback in the second half.

Julian Alvarez’s double and Rodri’s lone goal sealed victory for the reigning champions.

In a post-match review, Guardiola, acknowledged the importance of the test, stating, “After winning the treble, we need to prove to ourselves that we are capable of making a comeback. In this situation, it’s nice to prove it.”

He praised his team’s performance, noting, “We played incredible, immediately at the start of the second half.”