City in control of tie after win over Copenhagen

Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva, and Kevin de Bruyne found the back of the net, guiding Manchester City to a 3-1 victory in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Last 16 tie against FC Copenhagen at Parken to put the reigning champions in control of the tie.

Despite facing an intimidating atmosphere in Copenhagen, Manchester City asserted their control over the game right from the beginning.

The hosts couldn't prevent the reigning champions from taking the lead in the tenth minute. Phil Foden's clever through ball found Kevin De Bruyne, who expertly netted an exquisite finish from inside the penalty area.

Bernardo Silva came close to extending Man City's lead when his cross was headed by Denis Vavro onto his own crossbar in a somewhat fortunate manner.

However, despite Pep Guardiola's men dominance, Copenhagen managed to score in the 34th minute. 

A rare error from Ederson saw him play the ball directly to Mohamed Elyounoussi and although Ruben Dias blocked Elyounoussi's shot, the rebound fell to Magnus Mattsson, who delivered a stunning first-time curler from the edge of the box that flew just inside the post.

But the European champions reclaimed their lead just before half-time. De Bruyne closed down a Copenhagen clearance, and the ball fell to Silva eight yards out and the Portuguese magician effortlessly flicked the ball beyond Kamil Grabara.

De Bruyne had an opportunity to put the visitors further ahead just after half-time, but Grabara made a quick save to deny the Belgian's powerful near-post effort.

Substitute Jeremy Doku tested the Polish goalkeeper, who impressively stopped the winger's long-range attempt.

Erling Haaland missed two late chances to score a third goal, but Phil Foden ensured Manchester City's victory by netting from close range after a delightful one-two with De Bruyne in stoppage time.

The treble winners will redirect their attention to a Premier League fixture at home against Chelsea on Saturday. The second leg of this tie is scheduled for March 6.