Haaland snatches late winner as Man City survive Leipzig Champions League fightback

City twice surrendered their lead before Haaland struck in the closing stages to secure three valuable points and move Enzo Maresca's side into the top eight of the League Phase standings.

Leipzig started brightly, with Antonio Nusa forcing Gianluigi Donnarumma into an early save, while Rayan Cherki fired narrowly wide at the other end.

City took the lead in the 37th minute when Nico O'Reilly's low cross was turned into his own net by Castello Lukeba. Haaland and O'Reilly both missed opportunities to extend the advantage before the break.

Leipzig came out strongly after half-time and levelled in the 49th minute when Ridle Baku beat Donnarumma with a powerful finish at the near post.

City responded through Enzo Fernandez, who headed home an excellent delivery from Iliman Ndiaye to restore their advantage.

However, Leipzig hit back again just three minutes later, with substitute Christopher Nkunku setting up Nusa for the equaliser.

City continued to push for a winner and eventually found it through Haaland, who finished from close range after excellent work from Elliot Anderson. It was the Norwegian's 13th goal against Leipzig in just nine appearances.

The victory ended Leipzig's 10-match winning run at the Red Bull Arena and gave City three wins from their opening four Champions League matches.

Despite the result, Haaland believes City must become more ruthless when they take control of matches.

"When we were 1-0 up, I think we needed to go at it, go for the second goal and then the third. That's what we have to do. We have to work on that," he told TNT Sports.

The striker also highlighted the need for better teamwork, possession and defensive organisation. "Keeping the ball, when to keep it, when to go, working together offensively and defensively. You can always be better," he added.

Haaland also praised Anderson, who provided the assist for his winner, after the midfielder made an impressive start to his City career.

"He has been amazing. He has had an amazing start to his City career and that is what you expect," Haaland said, adding that the midfielder had impressed despite the challenges of adapting to a new club and coach.

City now turn their attention to Saturday's Premier League trip to Nottingham Forest, where Haaland will be looking for another strong performance as Maresca's side aim to build on their European victory. 

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