Phil Foden delivered a sensational performance, scoring a hat-trick as Manchester City cruised to a commanding 5-1 victory over AEK Athens to secure their second Champions League win of the campaign.
Match Report
Foden ended a 10-month wait for a goal before finding the net four times across consecutive appearances. After scoring against Ipswich at the weekend, the Manchester City midfielder continued his resurgence with three clinical finishes, the first two coming from assists by Rico Lewis.
City demonstrated their attacking strength despite leaving Erling Haaland out of the matchday squad, with 17-year-old Floyd Samba stepping in to lead the attack. The decision highlighted the team’s ability to create and score goals without relying on their prolific Norwegian striker.
Elliot Anderson also found the net during a dominant first-half display in which City registered 10 attempts on Alberto Brignoli’s goal. Allan struck the crossbar, while Rayan Cherki also came close to scoring as the hosts overwhelmed their Greek opponents.
AEK Athens struggled to threaten before the break and failed to register a shot on target until Stavros Pilios pulled a goal back early in the second half.
However, hopes of a comeback quickly faded when Cherki scored City’s third goal just five minutes later, restoring their comfortable advantage and putting the contest beyond the visitors’ reach.
Foden then took centre stage, completing his hat-trick with another impressive display that underlined his growing confidence and reminded supporters of his exceptional quality.
The England international had not scored a hat-trick since April 2024, making his latest performance a significant moment in his return to form.
Once regarded as one of Pep Guardiola’s most trusted players, the City academy graduate has endured a difficult period away from his best. His performance against AEK Athens, however, offered encouraging evidence that he is rediscovering the brilliance that made him one of the club’s standout performers.
