Erling Haaland made history as the Manchester City striker became the fastest player to reach 100 English Premier League (EPL) goals in a remarkable 5-4 win against Fulham on Tuesday.
The Norwegian’s clinical finish in the 17th minute off a cutback from Jeremy Doku at took him to his century in just 111 league appearances for City, shattering the previous record set by former Newcastle and Blackburn star Alan Shearer, who took 124 matches to reach the mark.
“It’s incredible, impressive. He was outstanding, today he was unbelievable. He made a fantastic goal. Hopefully, he’s starving hungry to continue with this club to make more and more goals,” City boss Pep Guardiola said of Haaland.
Pep Guardiola
It was the striker’s 15th goal in 14 league appearances this season. “It’s huge and I’m really proud [of my achievement]. Of course it’s a massive thing, the 100-goal club is a nice thing to be in and I’m happy,” said an ecstatic Haaland, before adding, “I knew about the record, that’s what I tried to do. I try to help the team scoring goals, that’s my job. When you’re a striker for Man City you should be delivering great numbers.”
After Haaland’s landmark strike, Tijjani Reinjders (37th min), Phil Foden (44th and 48th min) and an own goal from Sander Berge (54th min) helped City race into a 5-1 lead — Emile Smith-Rowe scored for Fulham in first-half injury time.
However, the hosts then scored thrice via Alex Iwobi (57th min) and Samuel Chukwueze (72nd min and 78th min) in a furious second-half fightback.
Having squandered a two-goal lead in their last-gasp 3-2 win against Leeds on Saturday, Guardiola was alarmed by the latest meltdown from his leaky defence. “Of course, I was concerned. But this will help us in future games. Every game is a new [experience] for some players. There were some really positive things in what we have done. In the end, it was a question of character and resilience,” said the Spaniard.
Other Results
. Tottenham 2-2 Newcastle
. Everton 1-0 Bournemouth
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