Young guns Hamilton, Bobb fire Man City to win against Belgrade

In their final 2023 UEFA Champions League group stage match, a Manchester City side featuring nine changes from their usual starting XI secured a 3-2 victory over Red Star Belgrade. Youthful talents Micah Hamilton and Oscar Bobb were the standout performers, contributing crucial goals.

With progression to the knockout phase already assured, manager Pep Guardiola seized the opportunity to field youth prospects and squad players in the dead rubber fixture at Rajko Mitic Stadium. The 20-year-old Academy graduate, Hamilton, made an impressive senior debut, firing City ahead superbly in the 19th minute.

Norwegian striker Bobb, stepping in for Erling Haaland, added a second just after the hour mark, showcasing his skills with an impressive solo run and finish. The victory was sealed by new signing Kalvin Phillips, who converted a late penalty after Hamilton was fouled in the box.

Despite Red Star Belgrade threatening a comeback with a neat strike from Hwang In-beom, and a stoppage-time header by Aleksandar Katai providing a consolation for the winless bottom side, City’s makeshift lineup held on. The result marked a perfect record of six wins from six in Group G for Manchester City.