Erling Haaland missed the penalty but still scored, helping Man City beat Sheffield United 2-1 in the third round of the Premier League.
Haaland opened the scoring for Man City at the beginning of the second half. After Jack Grealish’s cross and cross was full of effort, the Norwegian striker chose the right position to catch the ball and then hit his head, causing goalkeeper Wes Foderingham to stay grounded. After scoring, Haaland sighed and congratulated his teammates and fans.
Haaland is delighted after scoring the opening goal for Man City. Photo: Reuters
Before this round, Haaland had lost two matches, meeting Sevilla in the European Super Cup and Newcastle in the second round of the Premier League last weekend. The silence of the 23-year-old striker is part of the reason why Man City struggles. The absence of the number one partner in attack – Kevin De Bruyne, and head coach Pep Guardiola on the bench, put even more pressure on Haaland.
On Bramall Lane, Haaland was taken care of by Sheffield defenders. He is often followed by two players, ready to use tricks to stop him. The 23-year-old striker repeatedly got angry and complained to the referee. In the 35th minute, Haaland had the opportunity to relieve himself and the whole team.
Julian Alvarez escapes to the edge of the box and crosses the ball into John Egan’s hand. The referee gave Man City a penalty without reviewing the VAR. However, on the penalty spot, despite fooling goalkeeper Wes Foderingham, the Man City striker kicked the column and went out.