MANCHESTER: Erling Haaland admitted Manchester City’s 1-0 win over Manchester United at Old Trafford felt quite special after his goal survived the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) controversy.
The Norwegian striker struck in the 60th minute with a close-range finish from Josko Gvardiol’s cross as City played with 10 men after Phil Foden was sent off for kicking Bruno Fernandes.
Haaland’s goal was initially ruled out for offside, but the decision was overturned after a VAR review found that Enzo Fernandez, who was in an offside position, did not touch the ball despite trying to get it before Haaland.
“I thought maybe someone touched the ball. When I found out no one touched it, I think they thought I was offside personally because I’m not usually in that position,” Haaland said.
The victory was even sweeter for City because they had to survive with 10 men for about an hour at Old Trafford.
“It’s always nice to win a game, but playing with 10 men for 60 minutes at Old Trafford is a very special feeling.
“Seeing the faces of all the fans after the match, it was really a great feeling,” he said.
City then owed their success to goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma who produced a brilliant performance towards the end of the match when he saved Bryan Mbeumo’s shot from 12 metres.
“Great performance from Gianluigi at the end of the game. He was like a wolf in goal, he actually looked like a wolf.
“He’s a crazy guy and having a player like that behind you makes you feel safer,” Haaland said.
The victory continued Enzo Maresca’s perfect start to the demanding task of replacing Pep Guardiola as City manager.