Man City secures narrow victory over Inter Milan with stellar performances from Rodri, Ruben Dias, and Ederson
Manchester City clinched the coveted treble by defeating Inter Milan 1-0 in the Champions League final Rodri's superb performance earned him the player of the match award, while Ruben Dias, John Stones, and Ederson shone in defense Romelu Lukaku's disastrous cameo sealed Inter's fate
MANCHESTER CITY
Ederson - 8
Despite a shaky start where he gifted Inter an opportunity with a loose pass and had to quickly rush off his line to deny Lautaro Martinez, the goalkeeper redeemed himself with two outstanding saves towards the end of the game. His nerves settled as the match progressed, and he showcased his impressive shot-stopping abilities to secure the win for his team.Nathan Ake - 7
Drafted back into the starting lineup after being on the bench in the semi-finals, he proved his worth with a solid performance. He kept the dangerous Denzel Dumfries at bay and distributed the ball intelligently, demonstrating his value to the team.Ruben Dias - 8
A dominant performance was established early on with an impressive defensive header. Throughout the match, this player remained composed on the ball and effectively thwarted Inter's pressing tactics. However, there were some nervy moments at the back, including a miscommunication that allowed Martinez to run through in the second half. Despite this, a well-placed pass to release Bernardo Silva before the goal demonstrated the player's contribution to the team's attacking efforts.Manuel Akanji - 7
John Stones - 8
Once again, he proved his adeptness in the midfield position, confidently receiving the ball even under pressure, efficiently distributing it, and gracefully evading defenders in Inter's half. His commendable performance earned him a standing ovation from City fans upon his substitution.Rodri - 9
Despite being infamously dropped in the 2021 final, his inclusion in this match was never in doubt, and he proved his worth after a shaky first half. He impressed with his ball control and defensive skills in the second half and secured the victory with a superbly executed goal.Bernardo Silva - 7
He came close to scoring early on, driving into the Inter box from the right and unleashing a shot that missed the target by mere inches. Later on, he played a key role in Rodri's winning goal, providing the vital cut-back that eventually led to the Spaniard finding the back of the net.Kevin De Bruyne - 7
Unfortunately, De Bruyne's time on the pitch was cut short due to a hamstring problem, forcing him to leave the field after just 36 minutes. This was a major blow for City, as the Belgian had already set up a good opportunity for Erling Haaland and his absence disrupted the team's flow and rhythm.
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Ilkay Gundogan - 7
In a surprising turn of events, Kevin De Bruyne, the star player of Manchester City, was substituted with his teammate Phil Foden. Although De Bruyne has been instrumental in winning matches for the team in recent months, he seemed to have a quieter presence in this particular game, which could potentially be his last appearance for the club. Despite this, he managed to effectively link midfield and attack and also contributed to the team's defensive efforts.Jack Grealish - 7
City's attacks predominantly focused on one flank during the first half, but the opposition's Matteo Darmian and wing-back Dumfries posed a significant challenge. Nevertheless, the player in question worked tirelessly and continued to be an invaluable asset for Pep Guardiola's team.Erling Haaland - 7
Despite being named PFA Player of the Year, the player had a relatively quiet game. They only managed to take one shot on goal, which unfortunately was wasted by shooting too close to Onana in the first half, after a promising set-up by De Bruyne.Substitutes
Phil Foden - 7
Introduced earlier than anticipated due to De Bruyne's injury, he faced initial difficulties in finding his footing in the game. However, he soon found his rhythm and showcased his skill with a dazzling turn and run into the Inter box, coming close to scoring a second goal.Kyle Walker - 7
After what seemed like an eternity waiting on the sidelines, he was finally called upon to replace Stones. He played a crucial role in helping City secure the victory in the dying moments of the game.INTER MILAN
Andre Onana - 7
He showcased his agility by staying on his feet to deny Haaland from converting City's best chance of the first half. Additionally, he made a remarkable stop from Foden, proving his impeccable reflexes. Despite his commendable efforts, he could do little to prevent Rodri's winner from finding the back of the net.Matteo Darmian - 7
Although his time at Manchester United saw him play predominantly as a full-back, he was deployed on the right of Inter's back three and demonstrated his defensive prowess. He put up a solid performance against the usually dangerous Grealish, leaving him with limited opportunities to cause any real threat.
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Francesco Acerbi - 7
Matteo Darmian of Inter Milan showcased his defensive skills in the face of a formidable opponent in Haaland. Despite the challenge, Darmian held his own and utilized his physicality and experience to neutralize the Norwegian for extended periods of time.Alessandro Bastoni - 7
In collaboration with Acerbi, he formed an impenetrable defense against Haaland, showcasing his dominance in the air and his ability to win crucial duels.Denzel Dumfries - 6
Initially positioned high up the field as a wing-back, the Dutchman was gradually forced to retreat deeper into his own half, limiting his opportunities to make his usual attacking contributions.Marcelo Brozovic - 7
Inter's midfield was abuzz with activity as the night progressed, with one player in particular standing out. This player made crucial defensive interventions, tirelessly harried his City counterparts, and even managed to deliver an excellent cross that could have resulted in a goal had Romelu Lukaku converted it in the dying moments of the game.Nicolo Barella - 6
Another standout performer in Inter's midfield was their captain, who was just as hardworking and determined as his teammate. He covered every inch of the pitch, trying to stifle City's attacks at every turn. However, he may have missed a chance presented to him by Ederson's poor pass in the first half.Hakan Calhanoglu - 6
Drafted into the starting line-up instead of the injured Henrikh Mkhitaryan, he brought some much-needed aggression to the midfield. However, he struggled to keep possession and make an impact on the game.Federico Dimarco - 7
Despite a shaky start where he allowed Silva to nearly score, he was one of Inter's most dangerous players going forward. He hit the crossbar with a header and was unfortunate to see his follow-up attempt blocked by his own teammate, Lukaku.
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