Phil Foden delivered a sensational hat-trick as Manchester City cruised to a commanding 5-1 win over AEK Athens at the Etihad Stadium, extending their impressive home record in the UEFA Champions League.
Enzo Maresca’s side produced a ruthless attacking display, with Elliot Anderson and Rayan Cherki also finding the net to secure an emphatic European victory.
Manchester City Dominate First Half
Manchester City wasted little time asserting their authority, breaking the deadlock in the 12th minute. Enzo Fernandez struck the crossbar with a powerful free-kick, and Elliot Anderson reacted quickest to convert the rebound into his first City goal.
The hosts continued piling pressure on the Greek visitors, with Allan also rattling the woodwork.
City doubled their advantage in the 35th minute when Phil Foden combined brilliantly with Rico Lewis before firing into the roof of the net.
AEK goalkeeper Alberto Brignoli prevented further damage before half-time, denying Rayan Cherki from close range.
AEK Athens Fight Back Before City Respond
AEK briefly threatened a comeback after the restart when Stavros Pilios made a perfectly timed run to meet Zini’s pass and beat the City goalkeeper at the near post.
However, Manchester City responded immediately and decisively.
Cherki restored City’s two-goal advantage with a composed left-footed finish from outside the penalty area, extinguishing AEK’s hopes of a dramatic turnaround.
Phil Foden Completes Brilliant Hat-Trick
The English international stole the spotlight with two more outstanding contributions.
Foden grabbed his second goal after Cherki delivered an exquisite pass behind the AEK defense, allowing Rico Lewis to set up a spectacular half-volley into the top corner.
The 25-year-old completed his first UEFA Champions League hat-trick in the 75th minute, tapping home Ryan McAidoo’s cross from close range.
The result ended Manchester City’s four-match winless home streak in Tuesday European fixtures.
Manchester City vs AEK Athens: Match Highlights
- Final score: Manchester City 5-1 AEK Athens
- Manchester City scorers: Elliot Anderson, Phil Foden (3), Rayan Cherki
- AEK Athens scorer: Stavros Pilios
- Star performer: Phil Foden
- Competition: UEFA Champions League 2026/27
- Venue: Etihad Stadium, Manchester
What the Result Means for Both Teams
Manchester City’s victory strengthens their European ambitions and underlines their attacking quality under Enzo Maresca.
The Cityzens also maintained their unbeaten home record in the Champions League against clubs outside Europe’s top five leagues, a run stretching back to March 2018.
For AEK Athens, the defeat extended their winless streak to 20 away matches in the Champions League. The Greek side now faces another daunting challenge against Real Madrid.
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Final Verdict: Foden Inspires City’s European Statement
Manchester City’s 5-1 demolition of AEK Athens demonstrated their attacking firepower and determination to challenge Europe’s elite.
While the defensive lapse gave Maresca something to address, Phil Foden’s magnificent hat-trick and Cherki’s creativity made for a memorable European night at the Etihad.
For Kenyan Champions League fans, the message is clear: Manchester City remain a formidable European force, and Phil Foden is hitting sensational form.
