‘It’s simple’ – Josko Gvardiol reveals tactical masterplan behind Manchester City’s Real Madrid comeback

Goalscorer for Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday night Josko Gvardiol has revealed how his side got back into the contest from 2-1 down.

Manchester City secured themselves a strong result in the Spanish capital this week ahead of next week’s quarter-final second-leg at the Etihad Stadium, having gone ahead and come from behind to record a 3-3 draw with Los Blancos.

Bernardo Silva put the reigning Champions of Europe ahead inside two minutes, before a Ruben Dias own goal and Rodrygo counter-attacking strike had Carlo Ancelotti’s men in front at the half-time interval.

City remained composed however, and got themselves level through a stunning strike from Phil Foden, before an equally outstanding goal from Josko Gvardiol moved them ahead. However, Federico Valverde would score his out exemplary strike to bring the game level.

Speaking to broadcasters after the clash in the Spanish capital, Manchester City’s aforementioned Croatian defender was asked how he and his teammates, alongside the guidance of Pep Guardiola, managed to come back from 2-1 down to lead 2-3 on the night.

“It’s simple; you control the ball, what we do the best,” Josko Gvardiol explained. “And that’s all. Try to keep it, and be dangerous.”

The 21-year-old was keen to stress just how fantastic a contest the meeting between two of European football’s best sides was, as he continued, “What a game! First time for me to play here in this stadium, amazing atmosphere.

“And of course we take the result and look forward to the new game at home… Really happy for my first goal for Manchester City, especially against a great opponent. So… Happy!”

Josko Gvardiol came into the meeting in Spain as a fitness doubt, having been included in the Manchester City travelling squad despite concerns over a pre-existing injury. However, the Croatian would start the match much to the delight of his coach.

Pep Guardiola is having to construct his Manchester City tactical plans without club captain Kyle Walker and left-back mainstay Nathan Ake at present, however Gvardiol more than made up for their absences with a stellar performance.

Manchester City return to action on Saturday afternoon when they welcome Luton Town to the Etihad Stadium in the Premier League, with Arsenal and Liverpool remaining embroiled in a hotly-contested title battle.