Haaland accuses Porto midfielder of bum grab as City's Champions League win descends into tunnel chaos

Erling Haaland has accused Porto midfielder Pablo Rosario of grabbing his bottom during Manchester City’s 2-0 Champions League win at the Estadio do Dragao on Tuesday night, with the pair involved in multiple confrontations across a fractious evening in Portugal.

The on-pitch incident occurred moments after Haaland had scored his second goal of the game. Rosario brought the Norwegian striker down, sparking a melee that earned Haaland a yellow card — though the City forward insists there was more to the flashpoint than officials witnessed.

“I was really keen on a hat-trick and it seemed like he was very eager to stop me from getting it,” Haaland told Norway’s TV2. “You’ll be seeing a picture where he’s grabbing my bottom. It’ll be interesting to see that picture.”

The tunnel at half-time had already provided its own drama. Porto were furious that City defender Marc Guehi avoided a red card after catching Gabri Veiga in the head with his arm late in the first half. Players from both sides clashed as they left the pitch, with security personnel stepping in to prevent further escalation. Footage appeared to show City captain Ruben Dias placing his hand on Porto head coach Francesco Farioli’s chest as the two sides entered the tunnel.

UEFA will review reports from referee Szymon Marciniak and match delegate Stephanie Ford before deciding whether to open disciplinary proceedings. City could face a fine if further action is taken.

Farioli, whose side were beaten despite the controversy, argued the result could have been different had the officials acted more firmly. “The footage of the foul on Gabri Veiga is very clear and Gvardiol should also have been shown a second yellow card,” he said. “At this level, and playing against 10 men for an entire second half, things could have been different.”

Veiga himself was measured in his response. “He is a world-class referee and I respect him, but when an opponent leads with his elbow and there is blood, there is not much to say. We all make mistakes.”

City, who thoroughly deserved the victory on the night, now await UEFA’s verdict on a series of incidents that threatened to overshadow a comfortable result.