Manchester City booked a comfortable 2-0 win over Napoli in the Champions League on Wednesday night, with Erling Haaland once again the star of the show as he reached another incredible milestone.
The Norwegian striker scored his 50th goal in the competition in record time, punishing 10-man Napoli after the visitors saw their task made harder by a red card midway through the second half.
Haaland Writes Champions League History
Haaland opened the scoring in the first half with his trademark precision, latching onto a clever through ball before finishing clinically past the goalkeeper. That strike made him the fastest player ever to reach 50 Champions League goals, a record achieved in fewer games than any other striker in the competition’s history.
The Napoli defence had worked hard to contain City’s attacking threat, but the dismissal of defender Amir Rrahmani for a second bookable offence in the 65th minute shifted the momentum firmly in City’s favour.
City Take Full Control
With Napoli reduced to 10 men, City dominated possession and created chances almost at will. Their pressure eventually paid off when Phil Foden added a second late in the game, slotting home from close range after a slick team move that showcased City’s attacking depth.
Pep Guardiola’s side controlled the tempo throughout, combining their trademark passing patterns with ruthless efficiency in front of goal. The result sees City extend their unbeaten run in the competition and strengthen their position at the top of the group.
Napoli Left to Regret Missed Chances
Napoli had moments of promise in the first half, with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia testing Ederson and Victor Osimhen causing problems on the break. However, their inability to convert chances and the costly red card left them with little chance of recovering against one of Europe’s strongest sides.
Guardiola Praises Haaland
Speaking after the game, City boss Pep Guardiola hailed Haaland’s achievement.
“Fifty Champions League goals at his age is something truly special,” Guardiola said. “We are lucky to have him, and he continues to deliver on the biggest stage.”
The win not only highlights Haaland’s extraordinary impact but also reinforces City’s status as one of the favourites to lift the trophy once again this season.
