Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol (center) celebrates with his teammates after scoring against Manchester City in the Champions League Round of 16, Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Andreas Gora)

LEIPZIG, Germany (AP) — Joško Gvardiol handcuffed Manchester City’s goal-scoring machine Erling Haaland and hit his head in a 1-1 draw for Leipzig in the first leg of the Round of 16 tie. Champions League Wednesday.

The Croatian centre-back, nicknamed ‘Little Pep’ due to his similar surname to City manager Pep Guardiola, scored in the 70th minute after Leipzig reacted in the second half to the beleaguered English champions.

The visitors dominated in the first half without Haaland having a clear chance against the opposing goal. Riyad Mahrez put City ahead after 27 minutes after a combination of passes from Ilkay Gundogan and Jack Grealish.

With Haaland visibly bewildered in the game, City lost control of the process and Leipzig hinted at more danger.

The result left everything open for the second leg on March 14 at the Etihad Stadium, with City keen to finally lift the European Cup for the first time.

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola gives instructions during the Champions League Round of 16 match against Leipzig, Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Michael Sohn)
Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola gives instructions during the Champions League Round of 16 match against Leipzig, Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Michael Sohn)

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