Player Ratings: Man City ease into Club World Cup final with 3-0 victory over Urawa Red Diamonds

In a Club World Cup semi-final match, Manchester City solidified their spot in the final with a smooth 3-0 victory over Urawa Red Diamonds.

City initially had to put in a serious effort in the first half and eventually took the lead just before the break, following an own goal. Additional goals came from Mateo Kovacic and Bernardo Silva early in the second half, ensuring a comfortable victory for the European champions.

Next in line, the City team will face Brazilian team Fluminense in Friday's final.

Manchester City began the game with strong dominance, however, their play was a bit shaky, and goalkeeper Ederson faced several near-misses during the opening act.

The Japanese team Urawa aimed to confound their hosts by playing a defensive game. They were successful at first, holding City to only one shot on target in the first thirty minutes, which was easily blocked by Urawa goalkeeper Shusaku Nishikawa.

Nishikawa's activity level kicked up as the game continued, deflecting a close-range shot from Rodri and later sending Phil Foden's easy-going shot around his post.

City eventually broke through right before half-time, thanks to an own goal by Marius Hoibraten following a cross from Matheus Nunes.

Six minutes into the second half, Kovacic sped onto a pass from Kyle Walker and confidently scored City's second goal.

While Nunes missed an opportunity for a third goal, Silva followed through, netting a half-volley that deflected into the back of Nishikawa's goal.

Despite trailing, Urawa did not lose hope and managed a few counter-attacks on City's goal, but the European champions' strength proved too much, and they maintained their comfortable lead to victory.

Game statistics show that even with a few scares from misguided passes, Ederson managed to maintain control during what turned out to be a relatively peaceful night.

In the match, Walker struggled on the attack but redeemed himself by assisting Kovacic with a lovely pass. Nathan Ake performed commendably both in defence and in advancing position. Foden, although initially isolated, took on the role of striker and was instrumental in City's domination. John Stones maintained City's rhythm with his smart moves, while Rodri was consistently threatening in the attack position. Grealish, on the other hand, had control but did little.

Nunes was the game-changer with his fluidity between midfield and offence. However, the switch of positions by Foden and Silva made a noticeable improvement, with Silva seeming more at ease in the wide position.

Substitutes like Josko Gvardiol, Julian Alvarez, Oscar Bobb, Kalvin Phillips, and Sergio Gomez offered ample support throughout the match.

Unused substitutes for the match included Stefan Ortega, Scott Carson, Max Alleyne, Rico Lewis, Mahamadou Susoho, Kalvin Phillips, and Micah Hamilton.