City crush Dortmund as Foden outshines Haaland

Guardiola’s men prove their class with dominant 4-1 victory

Manchester City took a huge step toward the Champions League knockout rounds with a convincing 4-1 win over Borussia Dortmund, moving into the top eight of the league phase.

Pep Guardiola called it a “massive” game — and his players delivered. Phil Foden’s two goals, Erling Haaland’s trademark strike, and a late finish from Rayan Cherki sealed a statement win against one of Europe’s toughest sides.

Foden steals the spotlight

Haaland’s return to face his former club had dominated the headlines before kick-off, but it was Foden who stole the show. The 25-year-old midfielder scored two stunning goals, boosting his chances of a recall to the England squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Foden’s movement and precision were outstanding. His first goal came from a smooth passing move that left Dortmund’s defense stranded, while his second was a curling effort that capped off City’s best attacking display of the season.

Haaland keeps scoring, City keep winning

Even when Foden shines, Haaland always finds a way to score. The Norwegian forward powered in Jeremy Doku’s low cross to take his tally to 27 goals in 17 matches for club and country this season. His Champions League record now stands at an incredible 54 goals in 52 games.

Dortmund briefly found hope when Waldemar Anton tapped in from close range, but City responded instantly. Substitute Rayan Cherki added a late fourth to underline the gap between the two sides.

City eye smooth passage to last 16

With 10 points from four matches, City are now well placed to avoid the playoff round — the stage where they were knocked out by Real Madrid last season. Guardiola’s side look sharper, more balanced, and far hungrier this time around.

As the Etihad crowd roared at full time, one thing was clear — City’s confidence is back, and the rest of Europe should be worried.