Manchester City and Arsenal recorded victories in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, with City beating RB Leipzig 3-2 in Germany and Arsenal defeating Slavia Prague 2-1 away from home.
However, Liverpool suffered a 3-2 defeat to Fenerbahce after twice surrendering their lead.
Manchester City endured a difficult evening against Leipzig but managed to secure all three points.
Manchester City’s first goal was an own goal from Lukeba in the first half and Enzo Fernandez in the early parts of the second half while Erling Haaland scored to put City 3-2 ahead after goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma made a mistake that contributed to Leipzig’s first equaliser.
Despite struggling to control the game, Maresca’s side held on for the victory.
Arsenal also secured an important away win against Slavia Prague, with Noni Madueke and Viktor Gyokeres scoring in the first half to give the Gunners a 2-0 advantage.
However, Arsenal came under intense pressure after the break as Slavia created several opportunities and increased their attacking efforts.
Slavia eventually pulled a goal back in the 89th minute when Wiktor Nowak finished from close range after David Jurasek delivered a dangerous cross from the left.
David Raya was unable to reach the ball, leaving Nowak with a simple finish. Arsenal survived a tense finish, with Raya making a late save to preserve the 2-1 victory.
Elsewhere, Liverpool suffered a disappointing 3-2 loss to Fenerbahce after twice allowing their opponents to come back into the contest.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, claimed a late win over AEK Athens through a 93rd-minute goal. Porto also ended their losing run in the competition with a 3-1 victory over Napoli, while Viking defeated Sabah by the same scoreline.
The results provided contrasting fortunes for the English clubs, with Manchester City and Arsenal strengthening their Champions League campaigns while Liverpool were left to reflect on a costly defeat.
City’s performance drew criticism despite the win, while Arsenal will be relieved to have secured victory after a difficult second half in Prague.
