Manchester City’s long pursuit for the Champions League culminated in victory over Inter Milan in Istanbul, as Pep Guardiola’s team secured the Treble. After winning the Premier League and FA Cup, City became only the second English team to match Manchester United’s treble trophy record in 1999, with Rodri’s precise 68th-minute strike settling an attritional final. Guardiola’s all-conquering side was never at their best against a highly organized Inter, and they were forced to deal with the injury to Kevin de Bruyne in the first half. But the throngs of City fans inside Ataturk Stadium were unconcerned as they celebrated the greatest night – and season – in the club’s history. Guardiola solidifies his position as one of the greatest managers by securing his third Champions League title, adding to his previous two victories with Barcelona in 2011. It was far from an easy journey, as Manchester City faced some nerve-wracking moments, with Federico Dimarco’s header narrowly missing the target and Ederson making a phenomenal late save to deny Romelu Lukaku. However, the ultimate triumph was all that mattered. Guardiola and his team have now etched their names in the annals of football history, rightfully claiming their well-deserved place among the legends of the game.
Guardiola & Man City claim holy grail
The Champions League has caused City and Guardiola agony, particularly when they lost to Premier League rivals Chelsea in the 2021 final, but all of that pain vanished just before midnight on a hot night in Istanbul. The city endured late nerves, particularly when Inter substitute Lukaku headed straight at Ederson with the goal at his mercy, but there was an explosion of joy on the pitch and in the stands at Ataturk Stadium as they finally secured the giant trophy that had eluded them for so long. Guardiola stated, whether it was fair or not, that his time at Manchester City would be measured by his ability to deliver the Champions League to the club. That decision can now be made. The Catalan, who won the Champions League with Barcelona in 2009 and 2011, will become a household name at both City and Barcelona. Many people outside of the Abu Dhabi-owned club will always see their victory through the lens of the Premier League’s claims of 115 financial breaches, which they vigorously reject. With Sheikh Mansour attending only his second game since assuming control in 2008, this was the night City’s owners had hoped for and the night they finally captured the holy grail.
Man City grinds out the greatest night
This was an evening when City cared only about the outcome, not how they earned their biggest triumph. This was hardly a victory earned with the spectacular elegance and creativity that has been their trademark. For long stretches, it was a messy, sloppy effort against a well-drilled Inter side that was right in this Champions League Final until the whistle blew. None of that matters now. The moment Rodri appeared at the end of build-up play from Manuel Akanji and Bernardo Silva to deliver that exquisite right-foot finish away from Inter’s excellent goalie Andre Onana will be remembered forever by City fans.And, of course, the Champions League trophy lift. City played dangerously in the final minutes, and when it was all done, Guardiola, who had been upset in his technical area, was reasonably calm as he sought consolation from opposite number Simone Inzaghi. City’s John Stones was brilliant once again, and custodian Ederson made crucial contributions when needed. The final whistle marked the culmination of a remarkable season for City, filled with celebrations. It was a momentous occasion as they triumphantly lifted the coveted Champions League trophy, adding to their collection of honors. The team now eagerly anticipates the grand parade through the streets of Manchester, proudly showcasing their triumphant success in the Premier League, FA Cup, and the prestigious Champions League.
