James Milner feels qualifying for the last 16 of the Champions League is now in Man City's hands after the win over Villarreal.
Midfielder says result against Villarreal was all that mattered
James Milner feels qualifying for the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League is now in Manchester City's hands following a first win in the group over Villarreal.
City have yet to translate their dominant Premier League form onto the European stage so far this season and again produced a scrappy performance against Villarreal on Tuesday.
Cani's early goal put the Spanish side ahead and, after Carlos Marchena's own goal restored parity before half-time, City substitute Sergio Aguero popped up with the winner with seconds of the game remaining.
Roberto Mancini's side were laboured throughout the second half but Milner is not concerned about that now after Aguero's late heroics changed the complexion of City's European campaign.
Belief
The 25-year-old, himself a late substitute, said: "That is what we needed to do, get the three points. It was important that we did that.
"We left it late but we got the three points and that is all that mattered.
"We have played better. We didn't start the game well but we had the belief to keep going and do the right things, and it paid off in the end.
"Even if it takes until the 93rd minute to get the winner, you just have to keep doing the right things."
City now face Villarreal again in a fortnight knowing they are firmly back in contention to progress from Group A.
They remain third in the standings but just a point behind Napoli and three below Bayern Munich after those other two sides drew in Italy on Tuesday night.
Milner added: "It is a very strong group, every team is capable of beating each other.
"It was important we got this first win and, with three games to go, it is down to us now."
Premier League leaders City now turn their attention to Sunday's eagerly-anticipated derby against arch-rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Milner said: "We know it will be a tough game, a great atmosphere, a great occasion, but if we keep playing as we are I am sure we can get the win."
