Awkward Lukeba mistake puts Manchester City ahead at RB Leipzig

Manchester City took a 1-0 lead into half-time against RB Leipzig in the Champions League on Wednesday after a mistake by Castello Lukeba handed the visitors the opening goal at Red Bull Arena.

Lukeba turned the ball into his own net in the 37th minute while attempting to deal with a cross from Manchester City midfielder Nico O’Reilly.

The goal came during a first half in which Manchester City controlled possession but struggled to create clear opportunities. Pep Guardiola’s side had 66% of the ball compared with RB Leipzig’s 34%, yet managed only one shot on target from four attempts overall.

RB Leipzig made the brighter start and produced the more threatening attacking numbers for much of the opening period. The German side registered six shots, with two finding the target, and matched Manchester City for touches inside the opposition penalty area, with both teams recording eight.

Despite their dominance of possession, Manchester City were unable to turn that control into sustained pressure or a greater number of chances before the interval. Their advantage instead came from an unfortunate defensive moment for the hosts, with Lukeba’s attempted intervention sending the ball beyond his own goalkeeper.