Haaland becomes City's third all-time scorer as brace sinks Porto in Champions League

Erling Haaland climbed to third on Manchester City’s all-time goalscoring list on Tuesday night, his brace sealing a 2-0 Champions League victory over FC Porto at the Estádio do Dragão.

The Norwegian’s 166th City goal arrived just after half-time, a header that bounced in off the inside of the post. With the tie still in the balance deep into the second half, Haaland put the result beyond doubt in stoppage time, slotting past Diogo Costa to register his 167th for the club.

The win also marked a milestone for 17-year-old Ayyoub Bouaddi, who made his full debut for City in a defensive midfield role and was widely praised for his composure. Named man of the match, Haaland was effusive about the teenager’s display — while slipping in a characteristically dry complaint.

“I think he did a really, really good game,” Haaland said. “The last couple of weeks in training… I just told the chairman he’s been amazing in training and everything, so I think we got a gem there.”

He then added with a grin: “To be honest, I think he should have played me in, in the second half. I was all alone, so I was a bit angry. I will tell him right now, but he played a good game, except for that pass.”

The result gets City off the mark in this season’s Champions League campaign. Haaland acknowledged the demands that come with representing the club, referencing the standards expected by head coach Enzo Maresca.

“We have to learn, Enzo has to demand a lot from us. We have to demand a lot from each other,” he said. “We have to win games because in Man City you have to win games, you have to win trophies. That’s what we have to do with this club.”

Reflecting on the hostile atmosphere in Porto, Haaland added: “We won away in a difficult game. Look at this atmosphere, it was unreal at times, so I hope he is happy.”