Nathan Ake's father passed away just a few minutes after the defender opened the scoring in Manchester City's 6-3 win over RB Leipzig. 

The Dutch centre-back netted in the 16th minute at the Etihad last night as City opened their Champions League campaign with a comprehensive victory in Group A. 

And Ake, 26, took to Instagram this afternoon to share the sad news that his dad died just moments later. 

He said: "The past few weeks have been the toughest of my life. My dad has been very ill and there was no more treatment possible. 

"I was lucky to have a lot of support from my fiancee, family and friends. 

"Yesterday after a difficult time I scored my first Champions League goal, and only a few minutes after he passed away peacefully with my mum and brother by his side. 

"Maybe it was meant to be — watching me play always made him proud and happy. 

"I know you're always with me, you will always be in my heart and this one was for you dad."