Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-28 02:24:39
Manchester City’s Erling Haaland put on a dazzling display as he scored five goals in a 6-2 victory over Luton in the fifth round of the FA Cup on Tuesday. With three assists from Kevin De Bruyne, Haaland completed his hat-trick in the first 40 minutes of the game. Despite a brief period where Jordan Clark scored twice for Luton, Haaland went on to score another two goals after the interval, securing City’s spot in the quarter-finals. Mateo Kovacic added the final goal, giving City their second six-goal haul of the season.
Haaland, who now has a total of 27 goals in all competitions this season, has been in top form since returning from a foot injury that kept him out for two months. He expressed his joy at being back to his best and credited De Bruyne for their successful partnership on the field. City manager Pep Guardiola also praised Haaland and De Bruyne for their impressive performance in the game.
City’s dominant run of form has seen them win 14 out of their last 15 games across all competitions. With key players like Haaland and De Bruyne hitting top form, they are gearing up for a crucial Premier League clash against Manchester United on Sunday.
Showing his predatory instincts, Haaland wasted no time in opening the scoring just three minutes into the game. De Bruyne provided the assist for Haaland’s first goal, and he continued to set up the Norwegian striker for two more goals in the first half. Haaland completed his hat-trick with a sublime finish in the 40th minute.
Despite a fightback from Luton with Clark scoring twice, City’s attacking duo of De Bruyne and Haaland proved to be too much for them. Haaland went on to score two more goals, completing his five-goal haul in the game. Kovacic added a sixth goal to seal a memorable night for City.
In other FA Cup results, Championship leaders Leicester City pulled off a surprise 1-0 win over Premier League side Bournemouth, thanks to a stunning goal from Abdul Fatawu. Newcastle also advanced to the next round after a penalty shootout victory against Blackburn, with goalkeeper Martin Dubravka emerging as the hero with two crucial saves.
Overall, it was a thrilling night of FA Cup action, with Haaland’s exceptional performance stealing the show and setting City up for more success in the competition.
