Manchester City 1-2 Basel FC: Five talking points

Manchester City v FC Basel - UEFA Champions League Round of 16: Second Leg
Manchester City lost on the night but went through on aggregate

#3 Spirited display from the Basel players and fans alike

Manchester City v FC Basel - UEFA Champions League Round of 16: Second Leg
The Swiss team bowed out with pride

The fact that Basel FC pulled one over City, a team that has arguably been the best to have competed in the Premier League this season, is nothing short of extraordinary.

They attacked fearlessly and did not let the daunting scoreline force them into submission. Even the initial burst from Jesus did not stop them from fighting tooth and nails throughout the remainder of the game.

Evidence from this season shows that these are the kind of teams Manchester City struggle against the most; dark horses who do not have anything to lose. Their games against Bristol City, Wigan FC and Nottingham Forest this season are ideal testaments this.

Basel defended extremely well after the first goal and pressed the City attackers brilliantly. They intercepted those sleek passes more often than not and did not let superstars like Sane and Silva bully them around. The few times when City did manage to get through, Tomas Vaclik stood like a rock between the sticks.

The seamless intent displayed by the Basel players, and the unending support they received from the away end, lead them to become deserved winners on the night.

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