Manchester City defeated RB Leipzig in a 6-3 thriller to kickstart the new Champions League campaign on Thursday night. But the Premier League champions' struggle to sell out tickets was noticeable before and during the game, with Pep Guardiola even addressing the poor attendance post-match.
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Despite a Christopher Nkunku hat-trick for the visitors, Man City ran riot at the Etihad Stadium to begin Group A with a flourish.
Nathan Ake opened the scoring on 16 minutes, heading home a pinpoint Jack Grealish cross before Nordi Mukiele diverted Kevin De Bruyne's ball into his own net on the half-hour mark.
Riyad Mahrez scored from the penalty spot on the brink of half-time, and Grealish then turned goalscorer with a wonderful solo strike.
Joao Cancelo's long-range effort was the hosts' fifth goal of the evening before Gabriel Jesus rounded off the scoring late on.
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But the low attendance on a Champions League night clearly frustrated Guardiola, who is yet to guide the Citizens to European glory.
The Catalan boss has gone out of his way to ask Man City fans to attend Saturday's game against Southampton to boost the team amid concerns over another disappointing presence in the stands.
"The quality of the players was better today, and that's why we won," Guardiola added.
"We scored 16 goals in the last three games here. I'd like more people to come on Saturday.
"We will be tired. Southampton are so dangerous. I invite all our people to come 3pm to watch our game."
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Those present at the Etihad Stadium witnessed a cracker. (Image: GETTY)