Haaland scores brace as Manchester City stay unbeaten in Champions League

Manchester City maintained their impeccable Champions League record with a hard-fought victory against Young Boys. Erling Haaland, who scored his first Champions League goals in six games, notched twice in the second half, first with a penalty and then a superb curling effort.

Reigning champions Manchester City had been in control and took the lead in the 48th minute when Manuel Akanji tapped in. The Swiss hosts swiftly leveled through Meschack Elia’s exquisite chip.

However, Haaland secured the victory with a 67th-minute penalty and a second goal four minutes from time. This win keeps Manchester City atop Group G with nine points from three games.

Manchester City’s defender Rico Lewis commented, “That is how it goes; if you don’t take those chances, it can be difficult. In the end, the forwards capitalized on their chances, and we won the game.”

Under Pep Guardiola’s guidance, Manchester City is now unbeaten in their last 16 Champions League matches, with 10 wins and six draws. They are second only to Manchester United, who had a longer unbeaten run among English teams in the competition from 2007 to 2009.

The lead was established when Switzerland’s defender Akanji found the net in his homeland from close range, following Ruben Dias’ header that was deflected onto the crossbar by Young Boys’ goalkeeper Anthony Racioppi.

City was held back when Elia was set free with a precise through ball to chip the stranded Ederson in style. However, a clumsy Mohamed Ali Camara challenge on Rodri in the box led to Haaland’s successful penalty, sealing all three points in Bern, with Haaland adding a final flourish to the scoreline.