Manchester City extended their perfect run in the UEFA Women’s Champions League group stage, securing a 2-0 victory over Hammarby IF on home turf. Laura Blinkilde Brown opened the scoring early in the second half, and Aoba Fujino later sealed the win with a late goal, leaving City in control of Group D as they leapfrogged Barcelona to claim the top spot. Another win in next week’s return fixture against Hammarby would secure their progression to the knockout rounds.
The victory did not come easily, however, as City faced a determined Hammarby side backed by a vocal contingent of traveling fans. Despite City’s dominance in possession during the first half, Hammarby managed to test the hosts, nearly taking the lead when Asato Miyagawa’s close-range shot flew just over the crossbar.
After a scoreless first half, City emerged with renewed urgency. Fujino nearly broke the deadlock just a minute after the restart, hitting the post with a sharp effort. Minutes later, Blinkilde Brown converted Mary Fowler’s pull-back to put City ahead.
City continued to press forward but had to rely on goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita to preserve their narrow lead, as she made a crucial save to deny Thea Sorba. With ten minutes left on the clock, Fujino struck again, securing the second goal that confirmed City’s victory and added a cushion to their lead.
This win propels Manchester City to nine points in Group D, placing them ahead of Barcelona with six points and Hammarby with three. A win in their next match would guarantee City’s place in the knockout stage as they continue their strong European campaign.
