ERLING'S HALF CENTURY IS IN HALL OF FAME

ERLING HAALAND became the fastest player to reach 50 Champions League goals as the Manchester City star set Pep Guardiola’s side on course for a 2-0 victory against 10-man Napoli.

- BY SIMON PEACH

The 25-year-old sharpshooter reached a half century in just his 49th match in the competition, smashing Ruud van Nistelrooy’s previous record of 62 games, as the hosts finally found a way past Antonio Conte’ obdurate team.

Haaland's fantastic second-half header from a smart Phil Foden ball was followed by an inspired Jeremy Doku goal as City kicked off the league phase with a well-deserved victory against the reigning Serie A champions.

Tt was a record-breaking night at the Etihad Stadium, where Kevin De Bruyne received a hero's welcome as he returned to his old stomping ground for the first time since his summer exit.