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, November 26 — Manchester City controlled the ball, initiated more offensive moves, and took more shots, but it was Bayer Leverkusen who departed from Etihad Stadium with a notable 2-0 win in the Champions League on Tuesday evening.

Alejandro Grimaldo scored the opening goal in the first half, while Patrik Schick extended the advantage after the break, ensuring a decisive victory for the away team.

Pep Guardiola, aware of a busy schedule, chose to rest important players such as goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, Erling Haaland, Phil Foden, and Jeremy Doku. All three forwards came on during the second half, but Manchester City failed to change the outcome.

The city team faced difficulties from the start, lacking the pace and precision needed to break through Leverkusen’s well-structured defense. While the home side became more dangerous after the break, the Bundesliga team adjusted and made the most of their opportunities.

Leverkusen took the lead in the 23rd minute as Malik Tillman’s counterattack cross resulted in Grimaldo scoring with a left-footed shot past the City goalkeeper. Just before halftime, Tijjani Reijnders had a great chance to tie the game but failed to capitalize.

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Although Guardiola made changes at halftime, Leverkusen found the net once more in the 54th minute, as Ibrahim Maza’s cross was met by Schick’s strong header, resulting in a 2-0 lead.

City struggled after Haaland and Rayan Cherki came on in the 65th minute, but Leverkusen’s defense remained strong. Cherki’s free kick in the 85th minute was brilliantly saved, resulting in City’s first Champions League defeat of the season.

After the loss, City are in sixth place with 10 points from five matches, while Leverkusen move up to 13th with eight points. Bayern Munich, Arsenal, and Inter Milan continue to lead the standings with 12 points each, as Arsenal get ready to play against Bayern at the Emirates on Wednesday.