Manchester City were crowned Izmir Cup champions after beating PSV on penalties in the U12 youth tournament final on Sunday.
The tournament was hosted by Altinordu at the club grounds in Selcuk, Izmir.
Seventy-two clubs from 24 different countries participated at the event this year including Leicester City, Southampton, Wolves, Cardiff City, AC Milan, Celtic and Valencia.
City impressed throughout the tournament and it soon became clear that Pep Guardiola’s philosophy has started filtering through to the youth sides.
Manchester City have been impressive. Pep Guardiola’s philosophy is filtering down the academy. I’ll have some game footage later so stay tuned ?⚪️ pic.twitter.com/PDC4D2eR8j
— Turkish Football (@Turkish_Futbol1) April 6, 2019
The Citizens played out from the back. The keeper would typically play short passes to the defence. The outfield players were well drilled tactically, some of the pressing, short passing and movement was outstanding considering their age group.
Man City beat Rangers with this goal #Mcfc pic.twitter.com/RMMbYH2J4G
— Turkish Football (@Turkish_Futbol1) April 7, 2019
Goalkeeper Oliver Jackson really stood out. I lost count of the number of big saves and penalties he stopped over the course of the tournament.
Jackson saved two penalties and scored one in the Last 16 clash.
He also managed to stop three penalties and score his spot kick in the final against PSV.
Manchester City have won the Izmir Cup ?
Keep a close eye on Oliver Jackson. The City keeper has been outstanding all tournament
He then went onto save 3 penalties and score the winning penalty ? pic.twitter.com/s6bcSF07r5
— Turkish Football (@Turkish_Futbol1) April 7, 2019
Altinordu have invested heavily in youth development over the past few years earning a reputation for excellence in the field.
Izmir Cup Final ?
Man City vs PSV
I’m guessing this won’t be the last time some of these players hear the Champions League theme song pic.twitter.com/XVFkEIonb9
— Turkish Football (@Turkish_Futbol1) April 7, 2019
The Izmir based club were responsible for discovering and developing the likes of Roma star Cengiz Under and Leicester City defender Caglar Soyuncu.
