Guardiola also said Haaland endured a miserable evening at the Bernabeu Stadium because he lacked the needed support upfront
By Kehinde Okeowo
Manchester City boss, Pep Guardiola has said his Norwegian striker, Erling Haaland didn’t have the best of evenings against Real Madrid on Tuesday night because of their hosts’ tactical approach.
According to the Spanish tactician, Haaland endured a miserable evening during the first leg of the Champions League semi-final clash, due to lack of the needed support upfront.
The Norway international had just 21 touches during the match at the Bernabeu Stadium, the fewest on the pitch by any player.
Even Man City goalkeeper, Ederson completed 19 passes, six more than the 13 passes made by Haaland during the encounter.
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However, even though Man City dominated the game in the first half, it was Real Madrid who opened the scoring in the 36th minute through Vinicius Jr.
Kevin De Bruyne then slammed in the equalizer in the 67th minute, to ensure the tie is finely poised at 1-1 ahead of the return leg at the Etihad Stadium.
Speaking on Haaland’s performance after the very thrilling encounter, Guardiola said: “The pockets and distances between the central defender and full-backs was occupied.
“It was not easy for Erling. He moved well and had his chances.”
