Manchester City had a Glazer to thank as they fought back from a goal down to get their Champions League defence off to a victorious start against Red Star Belgrade

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Manchester United were left rueing ‘another Glazer’ as hopes of a shock Manchester City defeat evaporated.

City trailed 1-0 at half-time to Red Star Belgrade as the Champions League holders got their group stage campaign underway. Had the Serb champions held on, it would have been one of the biggest upsets in the competition’s history.

However, Pep Guardiola’s side found their shooting boots in the second half, with a little help from Red Star keeper Omri Glazer, who had been outstanding in the first half. The Israeli made numerous saves to keep the score down.

Julian Alvarez levelled early in the second half. Then, on the hour mark, the same player drilled a wide free-kick towards the six-yard box, where Glazer attempted to fist the ball away, only to miss it completely with the ball finding the net.

Following the goal, fans of both Manchester clubs couldn’t resist jokes at the keeper’s expense. One quipped: “Not the only Glazer to be having a shocker in Manchester.”

Another joked: And this is exactly why @GNev2 and all @ManUtd fans hate the glazers!! #flap. A third said: “Another Glazer ruining the day bro.”

A fourth added: "Glazer helping city win? I've read this story before.” Another moaned: “Bleeding Glazers again.” A sixth added: “The first time @GNev2 can actually blame a Glazer and be right.”

Rodri, the scorer of City's Champions League-winning goal in June, added the third on 73 minutes.