Erling Haaland Lifts Manchester City Over RB Leipzig in Champions League
Manchester City defeated RB Leipzig 3-2 after a late strike from Erling Haaland broke a tight Champions League deadlock.
Manchester City secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory against RB Leipzig in the Champions League on Wednesday, bringing an end to the German side's winning home streak at RedBull Arena. Erling Haaland proved decisive for the visitors, scoring the winning goal in the 78th minute.
The match saw Martin Demichelis' team fight back twice before Haaland sealed the outcome. The visitors initially broke the deadlock in the 37th minute courtesy of an own goal by RB Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba, which came after the hosts squandered early scoring opportunities through Christoph Baumgartner and Antonio Nusa.
RB Leipzig responded early in the second half. Following a crucial save by Manchester City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma against a Baumgartner shot, defender Ridle Baku equalized from a tight angle at the near post.
The English club regained the lead in the 58th minute when Enzo Fernandez headed in a cross from Iliman Ndiaye. Yet, the hosts struck back immediately, with Antonio Nusa firing a low shot into the bottom-right corner just three minutes later to level the score once again.
The tempo increased after Jeremy Doku entered the match for the visitors, adding fresh momentum to their attack. Elliott Anderson ultimately provided the cross for Haaland, who converted to net his 13th goal in nine career matches against RB Leipzig, marking the highest tally he has achieved against any single opponent.
Late in the contest, both sides came close to changing the scoreline further as Leipzig's David Raum and Manchester City's Rayan Cherki both struck the woodwork.
Despite the disappointing result that halted their home momentum, RB Leipzig fullback Ridle Baku expressed optimism about his squad's display. Baku also celebrated scoring his 30th professional goal, though he emphasized that team success remains his priority.
Looking ahead, RB Leipzig will attempt to bounce back in domestic competition as they prepare to host Augsburg ahead of the upcoming international break, while seeking to improve their standing in the Champions League.