Ahead of Brentford’s visit on Saturday, we take a look back at a recent memorable game against the Bees.
Game preview
The game against the west London club has become a regular test for the Blues and one that is always marked as dangerous on the calendar.
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But back in February 2022, Brentford visited the league for the first time in 71 years and the first top-flight clash since Christmas 1937.
It wasn’t a good time for them to book a long-awaited return ticket to Manchester as we were on a plane having won 16 of our last 18 games.
Leading the charge is Riyad Mahrez, who is at his best as a creator and scorer of important goals.
The Algerian had seven goals and four assists in his previous six games.
He started his campaign with goals and assists in three consecutive Premier League wins over Leeds United, Newcastle United and Leicester City, while Manchester City netted 17 goals.
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He was rested in the 1-0 win away at Brentford, before Rodri scored a dramatic late winner and penalty in the New Year’s Day victory over Arsenal.
After a frustrating African Cup of Nations, Mahrez returned with two goals and an assist in the 4-1 FA Cup win over Fulham.
The winger’s performance was outstanding and Guardiola was pleased with his performance.
“He has a special quality as a player,” he said after the win over the Cottagers.
“Last year we struggled with penalties and now he’s a guarantee. Every penalty he takes, especially under pressure.”
Against Brentford, he had the chance to show off his ice-cold demeanor again from the penalty spot.
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He was brilliant on the right wing and with City attacking we finally got a breakthrough before half-time.
Mads Roerslev’s reckless tackle on Raheem Sterling provided Mahrez with a chance to score on the spot and he made no mistake, sending Brentford goalkeeper David Raya the wrong way.
We doubled our lead when Raya’s poor pass went straight to Sterling giving a City player the chance to shoot. His shot was saved but Kevin De Bruyne followed up with another three points.
The win takes us 12 points clear at the top of the Premier League and on track to defend the title.