Manchester City claimed a convincing 3-1 victory over the K-League All Stars in a high-tempo pre-season friendly. From the opening whistle, the English champions dominated possession and dictated the tempo of the game despite strong physical resistance from the host side.
Match Highlights
City broke the deadlock in the 9th minute when Rayan Aït-Nouri pounced on a loose ball following a deflected cross from Tijjani Reijnders. However, the K-League All Stars responded rapidly three minutes later as Kim Dae-Won fired a sharp low strike into the near corner, surprising goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Man City restored their lead in the 20th minute through a stylish combination: Antoine Semenyo delivered a neat backheel flick into the path of Reijnders, who finished decisively on the volley. Just three minutes later, Semenyo unleashed a powerful long-range drive that was turned away by the keeper, but Divin Mubama was quick to react to the rebound, tapping home to make it 3-1.
Match Summary & Key Performers
- 9' Goal: Rayan Aït-Nouri (Man City)
- 12' Goal: Kim Dae-Won (K-League All Stars)
- 20' Goal: Tijjani Reijnders (Man City)
- 23' Goal: Divin Mubama (Man City)
The second half saw the K-League All Stars push forward in search of a comeback, but City's defensive structure held firm. Manager Enzo Maresca managed the second period effectively, lowering the game's rhythm while keeping full control. This victory marks City's first win of the summer tour following a 1-1 draw with Bournemouth, a 1-2 loss to Aston Villa, and a penalty shootout defeat against Inter Milan.