Manchester City withstand Leipzig comeback as Haaland seals win

Manchester City held off Leipzig’s comeback to win 3-2, with Erling Haaland scoring the decisive goal in the closing minutes. Enzo Maresca praised his captain after a turbulent contest, while acknowledging that his team still have work to do defensively.

City went ahead before half-time when Castello Lukeba turned the ball into his own net. Leipzig drew level shortly after the break, when Ridle Baku’s cross ended up in the goal. Enzo Fernández then restored City’s lead with a header from Iliman Ndiaye’s cross, but Antonio Nusa equalised again. Haaland eventually settled the match, converting Elliot Anderson’s delivery after the midfielder had driven forward to create the chance.

Haaland scored after just 13 touches. Maresca, however, argued that his striker’s contribution should be judged more broadly: “I said yesterday that it’s always important that Erling is inside the game. We know that any moment he can help us and he can score goals.” The manager also conceded that City could improve, particularly after giving up two avoidable goals. “Both Leipzig goals are quite silly goals we can avoid,” he said.

The assessment extended beyond the defence. Haaland said his team needed to raise its level and make better use of periods when it had the advantage. Maresca agreed with his view that City had room to improve, while noting that the group needed time to absorb his methods and learn to work together. He was nevertheless pleased to leave Germany with the three points.

The win came after Leipzig had twice fought back, but Haaland made the difference in the closing stages. For Maresca, the result matters; the goals conceded also underline the work still ahead.