Phil Foden Shines with Hat-Trick in Manchester City's Dominant Win Over AEK Athens

In a thrilling UEFA Champions League match, Phil Foden scored his first hat-trick, leading Manchester City to a decisive 5-1 victory over AEK Athens. The match showcased City's dominance, with Elliot Anderson and Rayan Cherki also contributing to the scoreline. Despite a brief resurgence from AEK, City's attacking quality proved too much, securing a vital win that ended their four-match winless streak in European home fixtures. This performance strengthens their position in the tournament as they look ahead to future challenges.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 21, 2026, 07:07 IST

Manchester City Triumphs in UEFA Champions League

Phil Foden achieved his first UEFA Champions League hat-trick as Manchester City secured a 5-1 victory against AEK Athens at the Etihad Stadium. This win also marked an extension of their unbeaten home streak against teams from outside Europe's top five leagues in this prestigious tournament.

First Half: City's Commanding Performance

City started the match with intensity, taking the lead in the 12th minute. Elliot Anderson capitalized on a rebound after Enzo Fernandez's free-kick hit the crossbar, marking his first goal for the club and rewarding City's early dominance.

The home team continued to control the game, with Allan also hitting the woodwork as AEK struggled to cope with City's relentless attacking play.

Foden doubled the lead ten minutes before halftime, exchanging passes with Rico Lewis near the byline before sending the ball into the roof of the net.

Before the break, City had a chance to extend their lead further, but AEK's goalkeeper Alberto Brignoli made a crucial save to deny Rayan Cherki from close range.

Foden's Hat-Trick Seals the Victory

After halftime, AEK came back with more determination and reduced the deficit when Stavros Pilios made an unmarked run into the penalty area to finish Zini's pass at the near post.

However, City's attacking prowess quickly restored their two-goal lead. Cherki received the ball outside the box and curled a left-footed shot into the corner, making it 3-1.

Cherki then assisted Foden for the fourth goal, delivering a precise pass behind the AEK defense. Foden finished emphatically on the half-volley, completing his hat-trick.

Foden scored his third goal and City's fourth of the second half by converting Ryan McAidoo's cross from close range with 15 minutes left, sealing the match.

City relaxed in the final moments after a stellar attacking display, achieving a convincing victory and breaking a four-match winless streak in home European fixtures.

For AEK, this loss extended their disappointing away record in the Champions League, marking 20 matches without a win. They will face another tough challenge in their next match against Real Madrid.

Foden's sharp finishing and Cherki's creativity showcased City's offensive strength, as the English side bolstered their European campaign with a commanding performance at home.