Manchester City Advances to Semi-Finals in Champions League with Haaland's Scoring Assistance - The Guardian

Manchester City's comfortable victory over six-time holders Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals epitomizes the progress Pep Guardiola has made. The question now is whether they can continue and secure their first Champions League triumph by beating the holders, Real Madrid, in the semi-finals.

Despite a noisy and intense atmosphere in Munich, Manchester City managed to keep Bayern at bay in a 1-1 draw. Bayern were able to exploit City's high line, but their attacks were repeatedly repelled. Guardiola's men held strong even in the face of relentless pressure from the German champions, cementing their reputation as a formidable team.

This victory puts them in good stead for what could be a treble. Guardiola is, however, reluctant to presume anything, but for the neutrals, the prospect of a maximum of 13 more victories lies ahead.

Haaland's missed penalty did not stop City from putting on a spectacular show of skill. Leroy Sané missed an absolute sitter, and City were held on both flanks, but they weathered the incoming attacks. City's one respite came in the form of Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva's combination play, which offered a brief moment of relief as Yann Sommer collected the ball.

City were unable to settle but held firm despite being shredded along both flanks. Bayern's plan of winning each half looked likely to succeed in the first, but they failed to land the punch that would have allowed them to take control of the game.

In a rare burst of agility, City were awarded a penalty when Ilkay Gündogan's shot hit the red blur that was Dayot Upamecano's left arm. Time stood still as Haaland blew the penalty over the bar, leaving both sides in disbelief. Bayern's frustration was palpable, as evidenced by the deafening stadium noise that followed.

City were able to eventually gain possession and control the sound around them. As Bayern continued to attack, Guardiola's team remained resolute in defense. When Haaland finally scored in the 85th minute to seal a 4-0 aggregate victory, Guardiola and his bench celebrated in an unparalleled joy. Bayern continued to push, and Kimmich's late penalty did little to reduce the sense of superiority demonstrated by City.

In short, Real Madrid will have their hands full as they face off against Manchester City in the semi-finals. If City maintain their present form, the prospect of a historic treble is very real indeed.