Manchester City Advances to Champions League Quarterfinals with 3-1 Victory Over AC Milan

Manchester City booked their place in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals with a commanding 3-1 victory over AC Milan at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday evening. The Citizens overcame a 1-0 deficit from the first leg in Milan to advance 3-2 on aggregate, with Erling Haaland scoring twice and Kevin De Bruyne pulling the strings in midfield.

Pep Guardiola's side started aggressively, knowing they needed to overturn the deficit from the San Siro. Their persistence paid off in the 23rd minute when De Bruyne's perfectly weighted through ball found Haaland, who slotted home with his trademark composure. The Norwegian striker's 31st goal of the season in all competitions leveled the tie and gave City the momentum they desperately needed.

Milan briefly threatened to silence the home crowd when Rafael Leao equalized just before halftime, capitalizing on a rare defensive lapse by Josko Gvardiol. The Portuguese winger's pace caused problems throughout the first half, but City's tactical adjustments at the break proved decisive. Guardiola switched to a more attacking 3-2-5 formation, flooding the final third with creative players.

The breakthrough came in the 67th minute through an unlikely source. Center-back Ruben Dias rose highest from a corner kick, powering home a header that deflected off Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the City faithful, who sensed their team was on the verge of another memorable European night.

Haaland sealed the victory with 12 minutes remaining, finishing a sublime team move that showcased City's technical superiority. De Bruyne's vision and passing range were instrumental throughout, as the Belgian midfielder completed 94% of his passes and created five scoring opportunities. The victory extends City's unbeaten run in all competitions to 18 matches and maintains their pursuit of a treble repeat from the 2022-23 season.