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Manchester City dispatch Gladbach to reach Champions quarterfinals

Sports Desk, Mar 16 (efe-epa).- Manchester City strolled to a 2-0 win over Borussia Mönchengladbach in Tuesday’s Champions League round of 16 second leg to book their spot in the quarterfinals with a 4-0 triumph on aggregate.

Due to pandemic travel restrictions, both legs were played at Budapest’s Puskas Arena.

Whatever suspense Tuesday’s contest might have held was dispelled in the 12th minute by Kevin de Bruyne’s spectacular strike into the top corner.

Ilkay Gündogan increased the gap to 4-0 just six minutes later with an assist from Phil Foden.

Gladbach goalkeeper Yann Sommer denied De Bruyne’s bid for a double from the free kick in the 35th minute, while Breel Embolo fired wide on a chance at the other end shortly before the break.

City have gone more than 700 minutes since they last conceded a goal in the Champions League.

Pep Guardiola’s men are through to the quarterfinals for a fourth straight year, though the final eight is the farthest they have gotten.

Already all but assured of winning the Premier League and favored in both of the domestic cup competitions, City are in the hunt for the quadruple.

“It was a good performance. We had control for 90 minutes. We were serious and after the two magnificent goals, everything was easier,” the Man City coach said after the final whistle on Tuesday. “I’m delighted to be in the next stage.”

De Bruyne acknowledged the importance of yet another clean sheet in the Champions League.

“It’s always important when you’re stable as a defense and a team. It gives the whole team confidence. And it’s really nice for Ederson and the defenders,” the Belgian said. EFE

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