Manchester City led by Pep Guardiola enjoyed the ball possession like no other Champions League team in recent years, and now they are on a lonely pedestal. City extended an amazing record that nobody could have thought was possible by going 26 European Cup or Champions games without being defeated superseding the record set by Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United in 25 matches. However, City has lost a penalty shootout during this period, the feat has not been equaled.
The record-equalling goal was scored in a 5-0 demolition of Sparta Prague which was perhaps the easiest match they had to contend with in the competition. Foden got the first goal quickly, which was a perfect start for the night, and Haaland, oh yes, the flying backheel volley by the second goal. Even if having other opportunities, Haaland is one of the most effective players in the CL as during the tournament, he scores more than 1 goal on average per game.
City’s reliability in Europe is also helped by their reign at the summit of UEFA’s club coefficient, while Real Madrid – winners of two of the last three Champions Leagues, is not in the best run of form. The last time City was defeated was in the 2022 semi-finals when they faced Madrid but since then, Guardiola’s side has been unbeaten. On top of that, they have played relatively soft matches, reaching the last rounds, with their recent rivals, such as Sparta Prague and Slovan Bratislava.
Foden's early strike, Haaland's brace, and contributions from Matheus Nunes, who set up two goals and scored one himself, sealed the win. Nunes, playing on the left wing, delivered a cross for John Stones' header, and later converted a penalty after being fouled. Haaland, substituted before Nunes’ penalty, missed the chance for his hat-trick.
Despite missing several key players, City showed their depth, with Nathan Ake making his first start of the season and Nico O’Reilly coming off the bench. Sparta Prague, who have performed well so far in the group, were simply outclassed by the financial and footballing gulf between the two sides.
City’s 26-game unbeaten run reflects their dominance over weaker opposition, but the challenges will grow tougher, with upcoming matches against Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain. As the tournament progresses, City’s remarkable streak could be tested in new and more difficult ways.
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