Haaland on same level as Messi, Ronaldo: Guardiola

Erling Haaland bagged another two excellent goals to take his English Premier League-leading tally to 13 for the season in Manchester City’s 3-1 home win over Bournemouth, a performance that left both his manager and his opponents in awe.

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Erling Haaland scoring Manchester City's second goal past Bournemouth goalkeeper Djoedje Petrovic during their 3-1 home victory on Nov 2. PHOTO: REUTERS

(REUTERS)

City boss Pep Guardiola was animated as he described Haaland’s first goal - a ruthless run from the halfway line that was finished with trademark precision — as his team moved six points behind leaders Arsenal (25 points) on Nov 2.

The Norwegian, who has 26 goals in 16 appearances for club and country this season, broke the deadlock in the 17th minute, heading the ball forward from just past the halfway line and then barrelling down on goal before coolly slotting past Djordje Petrovic.

"It’s the first goal, the way he kicked the ball down the grass. It’s like, ‘I’m going to score this’, it’s this determination," said Guardiola, who hugged his prized striker when the two were walking off the pitch.