Manchester City Secure Quarter-Final Spot with Shaw Double

Manchester City secured their spot in the Women’s Champions League quarter-finals with two games to spare after defeating Hammarby at a lively Stockholm Arena. Khadija Shaw scored both goals in a 2-1 win making her City’s all-time top scorer in the competition with seven goals. The victory marked their fourth consecutive win in Group D ensuring they joined Chelsea in the last eight. Shaw put City ahead with a deflected goal after a brilliant solo run, celebrating in front of the home fans before receiving a booking.

Hammarby, who had lost 2-0 to City in Manchester the previous week, equalized when Ellen Wangerheim tapped in. However, Shaw restored City’s lead with an exceptional 20-yard strike, securing the win. City goalkeeper Khiara Keating played a crucial role, making a series of key saves to maintain their advantage. She denied Hammarby’s Cathinka Tandberg and saved a follow-up shot from Julie Blakstad.

Keating also made a vital stop against substitute Anna Josendal in the 83rd minute to preserve City’s lead in front of a record crowd of 20,428. Despite Shaw’s double, City manager Gareth Taylor praised her overall performance, highlighting her contribution to the team’s press and energy. Shaw’s two goals further elevated her already impressive season.

Having scored five goals in the competition before the match, Shaw’s brace saw her surpass Georgia Stanway and Janine Beckie as City’s top scorer in the Women’s Champions League. Manchester City now aim to secure top spot in Group D with remaining matches against St Polten and Barcelona. If they finish first, they will be seeded in the quarter-final draw on February 7, 2024.