Erling Haaland delivered another match-winning performance as Manchester City began their 2026/27 UEFA Champions League campaign with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over FC Porto at the Estádio do Dragão on Tuesday night.
The Norwegian striker scored twice after the break to give City all three points and hand new manager Enzo Maresca a winning start in his first Champions League match in charge of the Premier League giants.
Haaland opened the scoring just two minutes after half-time, rising to meet an Enzo Fernández cross and directing a header beyond Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa.
The goal came after a frustrating first half for the striker, who had seen several efforts denied by an inspired Costa. The Porto goalkeeper produced a series of outstanding saves to keep the Portuguese champions level before the break.
City continued to control possession after taking the lead, although Porto briefly threatened to find an equaliser as the home crowd pushed their team forward.
However, Haaland settled the contest in stoppage time.
The 26-year-old completed his brace in the 91st minute with a composed finish after Rayan Aït-Nouri created the opportunity, sealing City’s fourth consecutive victory under Maresca.
Haaland Continues Remarkable Champions League Record
The Porto brace took Haaland’s Champions League tally to 59 goals in 59 appearances, underlining his extraordinary record in Europe’s elite competition.
He also moved to 167 goals for Manchester City, making him the club’s third-highest scorer behind Sergio Agüero and Eric Brook. His first goal against Porto also saw him draw level with Agüero on 36 Champions League goals for City.
Haaland has now scored five goals in his first four matches of the new campaign, continuing his impressive form following his decisive Premier League goal against Coventry City at the weekend.
Maresca’s Perfect Start Continues
The victory extended Maresca’s perfect start since taking charge of Manchester City following Pep Guardiola’s departure.
The Italian manager has now overseen four consecutive victories, with City winning three Premier League matches before opening their Champions League campaign with victory in Portugal.
Maresca will also be pleased with City’s defensive performance. Porto failed to register a single shot on target despite enjoying periods of pressure after Haaland’s opener.
Teenage midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi also impressed on his full debut after joining City from Lille in the summer. The 18-year-old showed composure in midfield during a difficult European away game.
City Send Early Champions League Warning
While Manchester City were not at their fluent best, the victory demonstrated the qualities required to go deep in the Champions League — control, defensive discipline and, above all, a world-class goalscorer capable of deciding matches.
Porto had been unbeaten in their previous 33 home matches, making City’s victory particularly significant.
For Maresca, the result provides another encouraging step in his attempt to establish a new era at the Etihad.
For Haaland, it was another reminder of why Manchester City will once again be among the teams expected to challenge for European glory.
Final Score: FC Porto 0-2 Manchester City
Goals: Haaland 47′, 90+1′
About the Author
