Cherki brings the joy as City cruise past AEK Athens
Manchester City made it two wins from three UEFA Champions League league phase matches with a 5-1 victory over AEK Athens at the Etihad Stadium last night. Enzo Maresca's side were in control for long spells, and the scoreline reflected their dominance.
Phil Foden grabbed the headlines with a hat trick, but it was Rayan Cherki who caught the eye with a performance that had the Etihad purring. The French international scored City's third goal in the 57th minute, finishing calmly past AEK Athens goalkeeper Alberto Brignoli after being teed up by Foden just inside the penalty area.
That goal came from a flowing move. Allan's low cross from the left found Foden, who in turn set up Cherki. The finish was composed, the kind that is becoming his trademark. It was a moment that reminded everyone why football is meant to be fun.
Elliot Anderson had earlier given City the lead in the 12th minute, and from that point on Maresca's side took control. Foden's hat trick and Anderson's strike sealed an emphatic win, but Cherki's contribution was the talk of the stands.
City now have two wins from their three league phase matches, and with performances like this, the Blues look well set for the challenges ahead.