The Champions League returned with high drama on Thursday night, and Manchester City wasted no time making their mark. Pep Guardiola’s men secured a 2-0 win over Napoli, though it wasn’t smooth sailing from the start.
The Premier League champions struggled to break down Antonio Conte’s well-drilled side until a crucial turning point arrived — Giovanni Di Lorenzo was shown a straight red card after hauling down Erling Haaland as the last man.
City quickly capitalized. Haaland, ever the talisman, powered home a header from a fine Phil Foden cross to give his side the lead. Not long after, Jeremy Doku delivered a dazzling solo effort to seal the three points and ensure a perfect start to City’s European campaign.
Over at St James’ Park, it was Marcus Rashford who stole the headlines on his return to England. The forward netted twice to help Barcelona edge Newcastle United 2-1. Though Anthony Gordon pulled one back late, it was nothing more than a consolation for the Magpies.
Elsewhere on the night, Club Brugge dominated with a 4-1 thrashing of Monaco, Eintracht Frankfurt hammered Galatasaray 5-1, and Bayer Leverkusen were held to a thrilling 2-2 draw by FC Copenhagen.
It was a night filled with goals, drama, and statements of intent from Europe’s elite.
