Mahrez started as Guardiola went with an attacking lineup. Sergio Aguero the lone striker with Bernardo and David Silva joined by Mahrez and Raheem Sterling behind him.
Mauricio Pochettino though opted to spring a surprise with his team selection. Christian Eriksen was left on the bench, as was Son, with Moussa Sissoko getting the starting role on the right. Dele Alli also made his return to the squad after recovering from injury, but was not fit to start.
However, the build up to the game was overshadowed by one thing, the Wembley pitch. Tottenham recently confirmed that they would play all home games up to December 29th at the stadium, as delays and costs on their new stadium spiral out of control. Not only has this angered the fans - many of whom bought tickets after being promised a state-of-the-art venue to call their own - but Wembley was already committed to other events.
Three NFL games have been played in London over the last fortnight, and the pitch at the national stadium is showing some serious signs of wear with the most recent game being played yesterday. Kevin de Bruyne remarked earlier that similar experience of using NFL pitches on tours of the USA in pre-season was 'not nice'. It was clear to all that the sidelines and central areas of the pitch were not up to standard.
However, City’s complaints were soon forgotten. Sterling turned Kieran Trippier inside-out down the left wing and his cross was tucked home by Mahrez at the near post after eight minutes. Unfortunately for the fans who elected not to boycott this Wembley game in protest, there was not much more action to follow.
Harry Kane missed a gilt-edged chance when put through one-on-one just before half-time. A heavy touch allowed Ederson to scramble off his line and smother the England striker’s effort when he looked sure to score.
Later in the second half, after a period of little action, City were left thanking the pitch. Alli played Erik Lamela in on goal. From 12 yards, with the goal gaping, he contrived to fire an effort over the bar. Replays show the ball was bobbling the whole way along an uneven surface.
There was little else for City to defend, and they manfully saw out the final minutes to record a win that takes them back top of the table. Pochettino recently said he has never been more unhappy at Tottenham, and the look on his face at the final whistle did little to suggest he is feeling any better.
29 October 2018