Gareth Taylor insisted that Manchester City's defeat to champions Barcelona would not define their campaign in the league.
A depleted Citizens side, missing Khadija Shaw, Lauren Hemp and Alex Greenwood, were comfortably dismissed 3-0 at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.
The visitors' decision lasted until a minute before half-time when Claudia Pina opened the scoring, while Aitana Bonmati and substitute Alexia Putellas were also on target.
And Barcelona were worthy of their victory, generating an expected goal (xG) of 2.51 from their 30 shots, limiting City to a paltry 0.18 from their three attempts.
The result meant Taylor's side would finish second in Group D and behind Wednesday's opponents, but the City boss was positive ahead of the knockout stages.
“[It was an] Great effort great. We know we didn't function and be effective in certain areas, with and without the ball, but you can't fault the players' efforts,” Taylor said.
“This match will not define us. We will learn, get better, get players back, get stronger and will improve.
“It was tough. Barcelona started at a very good pace, got their bit in their teeth, attacked and put us under really hard pressure.
“You have to give them credit, they are a top team, we are trying to do something similar and it takes time to build that up.
“We were a bit dysfunctional tonight with and without the ball. The effort from the girls was first class.”
On to the quarter-finals pic.twitter.com/rx3M7fkaqR
— Manchester City Women (@ManCityWomen) December 18, 2024
Laia Aleixandri echoed her manager's thoughts, saying her teammates will use the winter break to re-energize for the new year and reflect on the past twelve months.
“It was very difficult to play against this team [Barcelona]but I am very proud of the team for the effort we put into this competition,” she said.
“Obviously we need to review and improve some things, but we are very proud. We are still going strong and we can't wait to play in the quarter-finals.
“In this competition you play against the best teams in Europe. I think Barça is one of them.
“I don't care which team we face in the next round, we have to improve and I'm sure we will do that and be ready for the next round.
“We have the Christmas holidays now. I think it is good for everyone to breathe and take energy for what is to come, and we will be ready for it.”
Comments