Pep Guardiola: Man City had to 'swallow the poison' to avenge Real Madrid Champions League semi-final defeat last year

Pep Guardiola described Manchester City's triumph over Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League semi-final as one of the greatest achievements of his career. Following their 4-0 victory at the Etihad Stadium, Guardiola praised his side's exceptional performance, which saw them beat a Real Madrid side that won the competition in last year's edition. Ad «This is one of the highest [results of my career], considering the opponent, Real Madrid, in the semi-final of the Champions League.

We had to perform well, and we did it, especially in the first half. It was really, really good,» the 52-year-old said after the match. Champions LeagueMan City 'different to anything on this planet' says Owen, backs them for treble11 HOURS AGO Reflecting on their previous encounter with Real Madrid last season, which ended in defeat, he said: «I had a feeling these last days that we had a mix of calmness and tension to play these kinds of games.

After 10 or 15 minutes, I had the feeling that all the pain of last season was there today. It was so hard and tough last season when we played quite similar to how we played today. »We were there, and it was really tough to lose the way we lost; we had to swallow the poison.

In football, in sport, there is always another chance, and when the draw was Madrid, I said, 'Yes, I want it.' «Today, everything was there. The energy we had last season after a year of the players being criticised for not having character. We lost because of football, but today we were there.

I am so pleased for the whole organisation. »We accepted defeat then, but one year later, we are in the final of the Champions League. Football and life always give opportunities.