Manchester City started their 2025/26 UEFA Champions League campaign in perfect fashion with a 2-0 victory over Napoli at the Etihad Stadium. Goals from Erling Haaland and Jeremy Doku secured the win for Pep Guardiola’s side, who dominated throughout against the 10-man Italian champions. The night also witnessed Kevin De Bruyne’s emotional return, though it was cut short after a tactical substitution.
Match Summary
- Competition: UEFA Champions League 2025/26 – Group Stage
- Fixture: Manchester City vs Napoli
- Venue: Etihad Stadium, Manchester
- Result: Manchester City 2-0 Napoli
- Goal Scorers: Erling Haaland (56’), Jeremy Doku (62’)
- Red Card: Giovanni Di Lorenzo (Napoli, 19’)
- Man of the Match: Phil Foden
- Manchester City Manager: Pep Guardiola
- Napoli Manager: Antonio Conte
Haaland and Doku Makes Champions League History
Erling Haaland once again proved why he is one of the most lethal strikers in world football. The Manchester City forward opened the scoring in the 56th minute with a precise header after a clever assist from Phil Foden. With this strike, Haaland became the fastest player in UEFA Champions League history to score 50 goals, achieving the milestone in just 49 matches.
The Norwegian forward broke Ruud van Nistelrooy’s record of 62 games and added another incredible statistic to his growing collection. Haaland has now scored 130 goals for Manchester City across all competitions, with 74 of them coming at the Etihad Stadium. His stunning start to the season continues, with 12 goals already in just seven appearances for club and country.
Only six minutes after Haaland’s opener, Jeremy Doku sealed the victory with a sensational solo effort. The Manchester City winger skipped past four defenders before slotting the ball calmly into the bottom corner. Doku’s dribbling ability and speed caused constant problems for Napoli’s defence, highlighting his growing importance in Guardiola’s attacking system.
The Belgian has been in exceptional form this season, linking up effectively with Haaland and Foden. His performance in the Manchester derby and again against Napoli underlined why Manchester City fans are excited about his development.
Napoli Reduced to 10 Men
The game’s turning point arrived in the 19th minute when Napoli captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo received a red card for a foul on Haaland. Initially, referee Felix Zwayer waved play on, but after a VAR review, he issued the dismissal. The decision left Napoli with a huge uphill battle, and coach Antonio Conte was forced into tactical changes, including substituting Kevin De Bruyne, who had made an emotional return to Manchester.
De Bruyne’s comeback was short-lived, but the Etihad faithful gave him a standing ovation, showing respect for his decade of service at Manchester City. Conte later admitted that the substitution was his only option, given Napoli’s defensive reshuffle after going down to 10 men.
Pep Guardiola praised his side’s performance, especially their composure after Napoli’s red card. He noted that Manchester City played with confidence and maintained control throughout the match. Guardiola also highlighted Jeremy Doku’s impact, describing him as unstoppable in short spaces and a vital attacking weapon.
The Manchester City manager also emphasized that the victory gives his team momentum ahead of their Premier League showdown against Arsenal. After a convincing derby win and now a Champions League triumph, Manchester City head into the weekend with strong confidence.
Phil Foden Shines Again
Phil Foden was named Player of the Match for his creative display. The Manchester City academy graduate set up Haaland’s goal with a clever scoop pass and consistently tormented Napoli’s defence. His link-up play with Haaland and Doku has become a key part of City’s attacking success this season.
Foden’s performances in back-to-back games – first in the derby and then in Europe – underline his growing influence in Guardiola’s squad. With his form peaking, Manchester City have another reliable attacking outlet alongside Haaland.
The victory not only gave Manchester City three crucial points but also sent a strong message to Europe. Guardiola’s side, reigning Premier League champions, are once again among the favourites to lift the Champions League trophy. With Haaland breaking records, Doku finding consistency, and Foden hitting top form, Manchester City look well-equipped for another deep European run.
The Etihad Stadium witnessed another special night, with supporters celebrating both the win and Haaland’s record-breaking achievement. Manchester City’s ability to overcome a tough opponent like Napoli so convincingly bodes well for the challenges ahead in the group stage.
FAQs
Who scored for Manchester City against Napoli?
Erling Haaland scored the opening goal with a header, and Jeremy Doku added the second with a superb solo effort.
Why was Giovanni Di Lorenzo sent off?
Napoli captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo was shown a red card after a VAR review confirmed he fouled Haaland when the striker was through on goal.
How many Champions League goals has Haaland scored?
Erling Haaland has scored 50 goals in just 49 UEFA Champions League matches, making him the fastest player ever to reach the milestone.
Who was the player of the match?
Phil Foden was named Player of the Match for his outstanding creativity and assist for Haaland’s goal.
What’s next for Manchester City?
Manchester City face Arsenal in a Premier League clash on Sunday, a vital test following their derby and Champions League victories.