NEW DELHI: Manchester City secured a 2-1 victory over Bayern Munich in their pre-season tour match in Tokyo, Japan. Goals from James McAtee and Aymeric Laporte contributed to City's triumph, while Mathys Tel scored for Bayern.
The match began with both teams sizing each other up in the hot and humid conditions at the Japan National Stadium. Leroy Sane, facing his former club, made an impact for City by setting up Jamal Musiala in the 17th minute, but Musiala's shot was blocked by Nathan Ake.
Just two minutes later, Sane came close to scoring with a free-kick that hit the crossbar from 25 yards out.
City's James McAtee, who spent the previous season on loan at Sheffield United, broke the deadlock in the 21st minute.
Rico Lewis initiated the attack, breaking into the Bayern penalty area and setting up Julian Alvarez. Although goalkeeper Yann Sommer saved Alvarez's shot, the 20-year-old McAtee was quick to pounce on the rebound and tap it into the net.
The match showcased a competitive display between the two European powerhouses, with City ultimately emerging victorious.
This win adds to City's successful pre-season tour and comes after their historic treble-winning campaign last season, where they clinched the Champions League title for the first time by defeating Inter Milan 1-0 in the final in Istanbul.
Thomas Tuchel sent out an entirely different XI for the second half, while City manager Guardiola opted to make eight half-time changes.
Water breaks were also enforced midway through each half in the sweltering heat in the Japanese capital.
Tel levelled for Bayern with nine minutes to play, converting a rebound from close range after City goalkeeper Ederson had denied Paul Wanner.
Laporte restored City's lead five minutes later, tucking home neatly after Phil Foden nudged a rebound into his path.
Next up for City is a clash with Atletico Madrid in Seoul on Sunday, before they return to England to take on Arsenal in the Community Shield.
Bayern have one more game in Tokyo against J-League side Kawasaki Frontale on Saturday and then travel to Singapore to take on Liverpool.
(With AFP inputs)
