Premier League in Europe

Manchester City put on a clinic in humiliating defending Champions League winner Real Madrid 4-0 at the Etihad on Wednesday to win their semifinal tie by an aggregate 5-1 margin. The Premier League side smothered their storied opponent with aggressive pressing from the outset. Bernardo Silva scored twice in the first half for Manchester City with second half goals being added by Manuel Akanji and Julian Alvarez. The margin would have been greater but for two outstanding first half saves made by Real goalkeeper Thibault Courtois against Erling Haaland. The ease with which Manchester City swept by the defending champions will make the Premier League side a heavy favorite against Inter Milan in the June final. In addition to its pursuit of a first Champions League title, Manchester City is at the threshold of a historic treble. The Premier League title can be clinched as early as this weekend and an FA Cup final against Manchester United is also on the cards.

West Ham is also experiencing European success as the Hammers have advanced to the Europa Conference League final to face Serie A club Fiorentina.  A 1-0 victory over AZ Alkmaar on Thursday was more than enough to put the Hammers through to the final by an aggregate 3-1 margin over their Dutch opponent. Only the winner of the West Ham and Fiorentina match will see European competition next season as both clubs are struggling domestically. Despite a disappointing Premier League season, West Ham finds itself in its first European final since 1976.