Phil Foden scored his first Champions League hat-trick as Manchester City produced a commanding performance to defeat AEK Athens, ending their four-match winless home run in Tuesday fixtures in the competition.
City started aggressively at the Etihad Stadium and took the lead after 12 minutes when Elliot Anderson tapped home following a free-kick from Enzo Fernandez that struck the crossbar.
The hosts continued to dominate and came close to extending their advantage when Allan also hit the crossbar, but the rebound fell to no City player.
Foden doubled City’s lead 10 minutes before half-time after exchanging passes with Rico Lewis near the byline before poking the ball high into the roof of the net.
City almost added a third before the break, but AEK goalkeeper Alberto Brignoli produced an impressive save to deny Rayan Cherki at the near post.
AEK responded after the restart and reduced the deficit when Stavros Pilios made an untracked run from deep to meet Zini’s pass before finishing at the near post.
However, City quickly restored their advantage through Cherki, who curled a left-footed effort into the corner from the edge of the penalty area.
Also Read:
Cherki then played another key role as City extended their lead.
The forward delivered a precise pass behind the AEK defence, allowing Lewis to set up Foden, who finished on the half-volley into the top corner.
Foden completed his hat-trick 15 minutes from time, tapping home Ryan McAidoo’s cross from six yards to cap an outstanding individual performance.
City eased off after Foden’s third goal as they brought their difficult run in Tuesday home fixtures to an end.
The result continued AEK’s struggles away from home in the Champions League, with the Greek side now winless in 20 away matches in the competition.
AEK face another difficult test in their next match as they prepare to take on Real Madrid.
[wpadcenter_ad id='745970' align='none']