Erling Haaland was once again decisive for Manchester City, as his first-half penalty secured a 2-1 Champions League victory over Real Madrid on Wednesday night. Although he did not dominate the match in every aspect, his contribution proved enough to guide the Premier League champions to an important win at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Speaking after the match to TNT Sports (via Diario AS), Haaland discussed several topics, including his intense physical battle with Real Madrid defenders Raul Asencio and Antonio Rudiger.
“Asencio was trying to push me and looking for a fight”
Haaland did not shy away from explaining what happened on the pitch.
“You always want to play against the best. After the first minute, Asencio was trying to push me and looking for a fight with me. I, personally, like it. I don’t care.”
He also highlighted his previous encounters with Rudiger.
“With Rudiger I have also had great battles. Today he has sought too much war and pushed me. For me, it was a clear penalty.”
The Norwegian striker has built a reputation for thriving in physical duels, and his comments show that he embraces these situations rather than being intimidated by them.
Haaland reacts to Kylian Mbappé’s absence
Haaland was also asked about the surprise decision by Xabi Alonso not to use Kylian Mbappé, who stayed on the bench due to discomfort in his knee.
“We knew about his injuries and we don’t like anyone to be injured. We expected to play against him. I thought I was going to be able to play against him.”
Haaland admitted that facing Mbappé would have been motivating for him.
“When you have to play against Kylian and he doesn’t play, you’re not happy… You want to play against the best. It gives you a boost on a psychological level.”
Haaland on returning to the new Bernabeu
Having missed last season’s key match at the Santiago Bernabeu due to injury, Haaland spoke about finally experiencing the remodeled stadium.
“Of course. It’s great. It’s one of the places where you want to play. It’s incredible. It’s the kind of game you want to play.”
The striker seemed genuinely impressed by the venue and the atmosphere, calling it one of football’s greatest stages.
MadridistasZone view
Haaland’s mentality is always the same: he enjoys pressure and physical battles. Even when he’s not at his best, he finds a way to make the difference. That’s what separates top strikers from the rest.