UCL: Foden hits hat-trick as Man City thrash AEK Athens 5-1

Manchester City's Phil Foden delivered a remarkable hat-trick in a dominant 5-1 victory over AEK Athens in the Champions League match at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday. Following a slump in form over the past two seasons, Foden's performance at the Etihad Stadium offered hope of a resurgence for the England playmaker. The 26-year-old had gone 10 months without a goal before scoring in the match against Ipswich Town.

Foden's return to scoring form was crucial for Manchester City, who had previously lost to Paris Saint-Germain. Elliot Anderson opened the scoring for City early in the first half, his first goal for the club since moving from Nottingham Forest. Foden doubled the gap before halftime, and despite AEK Athens' Stavros Pilios scoring a consolation goal, City maintained their lead.

Rayan Cherki, Cherki scored twice more, showcasing his skill with a flamboyant finish in the 65th minute and another goal in the 76th minute. City's future now rests on the outcome of their appeal against the Premier League's verdict on financial rule breaches, which could result in a significant points deduction and potential relegation.