Erling Haaland delivered a clinical double as Manchester City began their 2026/27 Champions League campaign with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Porto at the Estadio do Dragao on Tuesday evening.
“He Should Have Played Me Through”: Haaland Speaks Out on Bouaddi Incident Despite City Win
After a goalless first half, the 26-year-old broke the deadlock shortly after the restart with a powerful header.
Porto pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but Haaland sealed all three points in stoppage time with his second goal of the night.
Erling Haaland reacts to Man City’s win in Porto 🗣️
Still a few bits to learn for new signing Ayyoub Bouaddi 😅 pic.twitter.com/bbAeD1y905
— Prime Video Sport UK (@primevideosport) September 8, 2026
The victory was not without its tense moments. With minutes remaining, Haaland became embroiled in a heated clash with Porto’s Pablo Rosario, forcing players from both sides to intervene and separate the pair. Both received yellow cards from the referee.
However, the Norwegian’s frustration was also directed at one of his own teammates during the match.
Ayyoub Bouaddi, the 18-year-old midfielder making his first start for City following his £86 million move from Lille, impressed throughout the contest.
Yet in the second half, he chose to pass left rather than play Haaland through on goal when the striker was clean through.
Haaland addressed the incident in his post-match interview, making clear his displeasure while also praising the teenager’s overall display.
“He did a really good game! In training he’s been amazing,” Haaland said.
“But I think he should’ve played me through in the second half; I was all alone; I was a bit angry, so I’ll tell him right now – but he played a good game, except that pass!”
Despite the on-field tensions, Haaland had generous words for the Portuguese champions.
“Amazing game against the champions of Portugal. We knew it was going to be a difficult fight.
They’re a top team. Honestly, impressive, all of them,” he told the club’s official website.
The striker emphasised the importance of securing the win early in the group phase.
“These are the games we have to win. In the Champions League you have to win games. If not, suddenly you get all the pressure,” he added.
Haaland has now scored five goals in five matches this season and will look to continue his hot streak when City face Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday.
