Maresca praises Semenyo, Marmoush impact in City's win over Atletico

Manchester City came from behind to secure a 3-1 victory over Atletico Madrid in a pre-season friendly at the Seoul World Cup Stadium in South Korea. Despite trailing 1-0 at halftime, City displayed increased energy in the second half, with Omar Marmoush scoring twice in three minutes.

Rayan Ait-Nouri sealed the win with a goal in injury time. Manager Enzo Maresca described the match as an excellent test against a top European team and credited his players for their effort throughout the Asia tour. He noted that the "real business" begins after the pre-season concludes.

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Overall, it was a very good test against one of the best teams in Europe. Credit to the players for the effort they put in. Starting tomorrow, pre-season is over and the real business begins.

Atletico Madrid had taken the lead through Jorge Dominguez just before halftime. However, Antoine Semenyo was instrumental in City's comeback, providing a low cross for Marmoush to equalize in the 57th minute. Semenyo and Marmoush combined again two minutes later for the second goal, putting City ahead. Semenyo finished the tour with four assists in three games, while Savinho also impressed. Maresca acknowledged the need for City to be more clinical in front of goal but expressed confidence that Marmoush's two goals provide a significant confidence boost, especially with Erling Haaland expected to return as a primary option.

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We need to be more clinical. That is something we need to improve. Slowly we are getting better and with Erling, we can become more dangerous. Today Omar scored two goals and that is a boost.