Manchester City’s Under-18 midfielder Divine Mukasa delivered a stellar performance on Saturday, netting a hat-trick in a dominant 7-1 win over Newcastle in the Premier League U18 North.
The 17-year-old, who has Ugandan roots showcased exceptional skill and flair, including a jaw-dropping strike from the halfway line.
Mukasa’s standout moment came in the 49th minute when he audaciously launched the ball from kick-off, catching Newcastle’s goalkeeper off his line to restore City’s four-goal cushion.
This remarkable goal energized the home side as Mukasa went on to score twice more—first with a clever chested effort in the 66th minute and then tapping in a cross from Luca Fletcher to complete his hat-trick in the closing moments.
The midfielder’s all-round display underscored his growing importance to City’s youth setup, with his precision passing and creative instincts proving pivotal in the match.
Earlier in the game, Mukasa also set up teammate Dante Headley for City’s fourth goal in the first half with a perfectly weighted chipped pass.
Speaking after the game, Mukasa reflected on his halfway-line strike, saying, “I noticed the keeper off his line, so I just went for it. Thankfully, it worked out—it’s a moment I won’t forget.”
City’s commanding performance began early, with goals from Reigan Heskey, Finlay Gorman, Ryan McAidoo, and Headley building a 4-0 lead by halftime.
Despite a brief Newcastle resurgence through Logan Watts’ header, Mukasa’s brilliance ensured City maintained control, extending their winning streak to seven matches.
With the victory, City remain second in the league standings, five points behind Manchester United. Their attention now shifts to defending their FA Youth Cup title, starting with a clash against Crystal Palace.
