In a match that demonstrated the importance of an elite striker, Erling Haaland was once again the key figure for Manchester City, solidifying his position as one of the best footballers in the world.
The match against Everton at the Etihad Stadium was a clear demonstration of this. Despite a goalless first half, frustration grew among City fans. However, in a span of five minutes, Haaland changed the course of the match, scoring two goals that secured the victory for his team.
The first goal came with an imposing header, followed by a precise finish. Two goals that reflected Haaland’s ability to make a difference.
“He’s our key man, what can I say?” commented Pep Guardiola after the match. “Erling lives for this. Our passing delivery has improved and Erling is our key man at the moment.”
Pep Guardiola
Guardiola also highlighted the difficulty of the first half, attributing it to the international break and Everton’s good performance and their game strategy.
Everton, although they don’t have a player of Haaland’s caliber, showed a good performance, especially in the first half. Beto had a clear scoring opportunity, but he failed to capitalize on it.
In contrast, Haaland took advantage of his opportunities, scoring two goals that demonstrated the difference between an average striker and a world-class one.
After the match, Everton coach David Moyes expressed his admiration for Haaland.
“I said I wish he was somewhere else,” revealed the Everton boss. “Most managers will be thinking the same. I thought we did a good job on him, but he scored two goals”.
David MoyesHaaland’s remarkable forma ha mantenido al Man City en la cima en términos de resultados esta temporada, pero Guardiola reiteró que necesita que otros jugadores den un paso adelante y contribuyan con goles.Haaland has had an exceptional season, with 23 goals in 13 matches between club and national team. In the Premier League, he has scored 11 goals in eight matches.
Despite not achieving a hat-trick, Haaland was cheered by the fans at the end of the match.
Guardiola admitted that he would prefer his team not to depend so much on Haaland, emphasizing the need for other players to contribute goals.
“He could have had four or five,” Guardiola said. “We cannot depend on him only; we need other players. The wingers, the offensive midfielders. They have to step forward and score goals.”
City’s victory underscores its potential to compete for the most important titles, driven by Haaland’s goal-scoring ability.
With Haaland in the team, City always has a chance.
