Erling Haaland struck a 78th-minute winner to help Manchester City overcome RB Leipzig 3-2 in a thrilling UEFA Champions League league phase encounter at the Red Bull Arena on Wednesday.
City were forced to respond twice after being pegged back by the German side, eventually securing the points through Haaland’s decisive finish from an Elliot Anderson cross. The result moves City to seventh in the standings after four matches.
The visitors initially took the lead in the 37th minute when a Castello Lukeba own goal broke the deadlock. Leipzig responded early in the second half through Ridle Baku, before Enzo Fernández restored City's advantage in the 58th minute.
Leipzig equalised for a second time via Antonio Nusa, who capitalised on a pass from Christopher Nkunku. Haaland, who had been relatively quiet throughout the contest, then arrived at the back post to settle the match with his 13th touch.
Speaking after the match, Haaland emphasised the need for his team to show more ruthlessness in front of goal. He noted that the side must work on their collective play and ability to kill off games earlier when in a leading position.
Manager Enzo Maresca expressed satisfaction with the result, particularly following back-to-back Premier League defeats against Aston Villa and Brighton. He acknowledged the difficulty of playing away in Germany but praised his team's response to the pressure.
The victory marks Haaland's 13th goal in nine career appearances against RB Leipzig, making them his most frequent victims in professional football. The striker has now scored 62 goals in 61 Champions League appearances.
Leipzig, managed by former City defender Martin Demichelis, tested goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma throughout the evening. Both sides hit the woodwork in the closing stages as the game remained open until the final whistle.
City will now look to carry this momentum into their upcoming domestic fixtures. The squad is scheduled to return to action in three days, with the manager highlighting the importance of maintaining focus as they navigate a busy calendar.
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