Manuel Pellegrini had his first taste of defeat as Manchester City boss as his Blues side were beaten 2-0 in their pre-season opener.
City are on a tour of South Africa in preparation for the new season and played their first match against Supersport United in Pretoria.
After a goalless first half, Pellegrini opted to change his entire team with the likes of Hart, Kompany, and new signing Fernandinho all removed.
This did nothing to inspire City as Mame Niang headed the hosts ahead in the 56th minute.
Supersport added to their tally in the 82nd minute when Kermit Erasmus beat Costel Pantilimon.
Pellegrini was unfazed by the defeat, saying it was more about fitness levels.
Speaking to the club website, he said: “We are just starting the season so it’s not always important to win but for us it’s important to give minutes to the whole squad.
“We’re not prepared to play the way we want them to play so this was a normal match for pre-season. I’m not worried and this is what we expected.”
City will now play AmaZulu on Thursday in a match to mark the 95th birthday of former South African President Nelson Mandela.
Picture courtesy of sntv, via YouTube, with thanks.
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