Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola described his sides 3-1 Champions League win over Copenhagen as ‘perfect’ as he praised his side for their patience.

The defending champions will now be confident of advancing to the tournament’s quarterfinals as they play the second leg of the tie at home.

Speaking after the game to TNT Sport Guardiola said: “That was really, really good, I am so proud. It was important. Today was perfect.

“They were patient in the right moments. Really good. I’m really proud of the team. The third goal helped us a lot.

“Hopefully we can finish it off at home and go to the next game.

“It was important to not lose the tie here. The game was really well played from the first minute.

“We conceded a goal but sometimes that happens. In the second half they played with five in the back but in general we did well.

“We didn’t concede transitions or make the crowd support the team… We had the perfect tempo so really pleased.”

Asked to comment on Kevin de Bruyne’s impact since his return from injury he added: “Yeah, extraordinary. The first goal was amazing, the right pass and tempo from Phil Foden.

“The biggest players appear on the biggest stages.

“It’s the hour of truth. We started well. We have to do our job and finish it.

“I’m just really pleased for the result,” he said.

The second leg of the Manchester City versus Copenhagen last sixteen tie will be played on 6 March.