Manchester City Dominate Bayern Munich in Champions League Quarterfinal
Hat-Trick Hero Haaland Secures 3-0 First-Leg Victory
Guardiola's Side Firmly in Control Heading into Second Leg
Manchester City unleashed an emphatic performance to seize a commanding 3-0 lead over Bayern Munich in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal at the Etihad Stadium. The victory leaves Pep Guardiola's side in an enviable position heading into the second leg on April 18.
Norwegian sensation Erling Haaland, who missed a penalty in the first half, atoned for his earlier lapse by scoring a stunning brace to seal Manchester City's victory. City's dominance was evident from the outset, with İlkay Gündoğan deftly converting a cross from Riyad Mahrez in the 20th minute to put the hosts ahead.
Haaland doubled the advantage ten minutes later, showcasing his predatory instincts to pounce on a loose ball in the Bayern penalty area. The striker completed his hat-trick in the 60th minute, heading home Kevin De Bruyne's pinpoint cross to leave Bayern reeling.
Bayern Munich, who entered the match as slight favorites, struggled to find their rhythm against a relentless City side. Julian Nagelsmann's team lacked their usual intensity and were unable to create clear-cut chances against a disciplined City defense marshaled by Ruben Dias.
Manchester City's victory extends their unbeaten run to 12 matches in all competitions. They will be confident of completing the job in the second leg at the Allianz Arena and securing a berth in the semifinals. Bayern Munich, however, will need a monumental effort in front of their home crowd to overturn the deficit and keep their Champions League hopes alive.
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