News Editor
Erling Haaland delivered a stunning performance to help Manchester City maintain their unbeaten record in this season’s Champions League, securing a victory against Sparta Prague at the Etihad Stadium.
After being thwarted multiple times by Sparta’s goalkeeper, Peter Vindahl, Haaland broke the deadlock midway through the second half with an impressive backheel volley, turning in Savinho’s cross. The finish seemed to surprise even Haaland, but it provided Pep Guardiola’s side with a much-needed cushion after a challenging first half.
City had opened the scoring early in the match when Phil Foden clinically slotted the ball into the bottom corner just three minutes in, hinting at a potential rout. However, despite Haaland’s header and a second attempt from Foden being denied by Vindahl, City went into halftime with only a one-goal lead.
Haaland’s dazzling strike energized the team after the break. John Stones, who scored the winner against Wolves last weekend, added a third with a powerful header. Haaland then netted his second of the evening with a curled finish, bringing his Champions League goal tally to 44 at just 24 years old.
The hosts capped off their dominant performance with a fifth goal in the dying minutes, as Matheus Nunes converted a penalty for his first Champions League goal.
With this victory, Manchester City has secured two wins and one draw in their Champions League campaign so far this season, showcasing their strength as they continue their pursuit of European glory.
