In a pivotal match at the Etihad Stadium, Erling Haaland’s second-half double propelled Manchester City to a 2-0 victory over Everton. His goals secured a crucial three points in what was anticipated to be a challenging Premier League encounter for Pep Guardiola’s squad. As Haaland sprang into action during the later stages of the game, it became evident that Manchester City possesses a formidable asset up front, one that rivals struggle to match – an advantage that could be significant as the 2025/26 season unfolds.
Erling Haaland led Manchester City to a vital win.
For the majority of the match, Manchester City faced a resilient Everton team determined to disrupt their flow. Manager David Moyes crafted a game plan aimed at stifling Guardiola’s side and striking on the break, a strategy that proved effective for 57 minutes.
However, everything changed when Erling Haaland found his rhythm. He opened the scoring with a powerful header from a Nico O’Reilly cross in the 58th minute. Just five minutes later, he netted again with a precise finish following clever interplay between Phil Foden and Savinho, who created the opportunity on the left. Haaland’s quick brace effectively sealed Everton’s fate, shattering their stubborn defenses. By the match’s conclusion, Haaland was unlucky not to have completed a hat trick, but his impact was undeniable, having sapped the spirit from Everton.
Haaland’s performance exemplified the unique capabilities that Manchester City has at its disposal compared to its competitors. In Haaland, City possesses an unstoppable force, capable of changing the course of a match in an instant. Although he was relatively quiet for over half the game, he made his mark decisively within just five minutes. The Norwegian star is the ultimate game-changer, and while teams like Liverpool and Arsenal feature talented forwards, none have a player with Haaland’s exceptional goal-scoring prowess. A goal from Haaland often leaves City’s opponents feeling demoralized, a psychological edge that is invaluable.
Pep Guardiola commended Erling Haaland after the match.
After the match, Pep Guardiola spoke to the press, emphasizing that Erling Haaland is a vital player for Manchester City. Yet, he also noted the necessity for Haaland’s teammates to elevate their performances and contribute more goals. Commenting on Haaland’s display, Guardiola stated, “He could’ve scored four or five. He’s our key man, what can I say? At the same time, we cannot simply rely on him; we want to achieve success not just through Erling.“
“Our wingers, attacking midfielders, and others need to step up; the chances we create are crystal clear! They must score; Savio had two, Jeremy [Doku] had two, Tijjani [Reijnders] had another – they must convert.”
Guardiola’s assessment rings true on both fronts. Manchester City requires additional players to alleviate the goal-scoring pressure on Haaland. There is optimism that goals will soon come from Jeremy Doku, Savinho, Tijjani Reijnders, Omar Marmoush, and others. If they begin to score alongside Haaland’s contributions, City will become a nearly unstoppable force in attack.
Moreover, Guardiola’s assertion that Haaland is crucial to Manchester City cannot be overstated. With 14 goals in just 10 matches this season, Haaland’s numbers are staggering. He represents a level of goal-scoring ability that no other team can currently rival, devastating opposing sides with his efficiency and flair. This was exemplified once again today as Erling Haaland propelled his team to an important victory, continuing his phenomenal start to the season.
We are witnessing greatness. pic.twitter.com/KNkwiIkII0
— Premier League (@premierleague) October 18, 2025