Alvarez inspires Man City Champions League win in absence of Haaland

Manchester City's Ilkay Gundogan reacts during the group G Champions League soccer match between Manchester City and Sevilla at the Etihad stadium in Manchester, England, Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2022. (AP Photo

Julian Alvarez may never replicate Erling Haaland’s sheer goal-scoring power.

But the Argentine showcased his value to Manchester City by scoring one goal and creating two more in his team’s 3-1 win against Sevilla on Wednesday.

It earned him an embrace from manager Pep Guardiola and transformed what was threatening to be a frustrating night for City who trailed to Rafa Mir’s goal at half time.  Alvarez’ quick-thinking set up 17-year-old Rico Lewis to equalize after the break and he fired City ahead when rounding Yassine Bounou.

Another lay-off to Riyad Mahrez completed the scoring.