As featured on NewsNow: Football news

Man City boss Guardiola: No underestimating Copenhagen

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola says there'll be no underestimating FC Copenhagen in their Champions League clash.

City host FCK defending a 3-1 lead from the first-leg of their round 16 tie.

"In football everything can happen, and we have to be aware of that," said Guardiola.

“We have respect for Copenhagen and how they play. The Champions League is Champions League. The best eight teams in Europe [will move to the next round].

“We have the chance to be in quarter-finals again and this is the target. We're not far off that.

“The way Copenhagen defend - they are compact – and all the movements they do really well.

“I am always aware of the opponents, but I especially look at our players.

“We struggled there last season; Bayern Munich were not able to win in Copenhagen.

“They play two years in a row with the same manager, and they have a strong striker. They are compact and do really good movements.

“My concern is always there. Otherwise I would not be here, but I prefer to start 3-1 up rather than 0-1 down.

“I would like us to be ahead 7-0, but that normally doesn't happen in the Champions League. I want us to perform the way we have to do.

“Red cards or bad decisions can happen in football. If we conceded another goal in the group stages, we are second in the table and the draw would have been Real Madrid not Copenhagen.

“In football the details make the difference. Prepare well, mentally and read what they have to do.

“Respect Copenhagen, because this competition deserves it."

Video of the day:

About the author

Paul Vegas

×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

  1. Go Ad-Free
  2. Faster site experience
  3. Support great writing
  4. Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free
×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free