The mental strength of City striker Erling Haaland was on full display during the 2-1 win over Sheffield United at the weekend. After a game in which the star striker missed a first-half penalty, and another guilt-edged chance in the second half the striker still made an impact in the win.
Sheffield United’s rear guard was determined to not let the Norwegian star not have an impact on the game. At times it resembled a rugby scrum as they manhandled Haaland to prevent City’s main man from having any real impact on the game. The Norwegian striker showed remarkable discipline to not react to the host’s tactics employed to stop him.
During the first half, the only impact of note from the Norwegian powerhouse was a missed penalty in the 35th minute. It was a rare sight to see Haaland’s penalty crash off the post and wide, and he could’ve been forgiven for thinking it just wasn’t his day after a tough first half.
But as all great players have, Haaland’s determination to make an impact shone through in the second half. He wasn’t to be denied as he rose home to head home City’s opener off a delicious Jack Grealish cross in the 63rd minute. It speaks volumes of the mental strength and determination Erling Haaland has to overcome a bad day to still have an impact on the game.
Manchester City’s star striker has 3 goals in 3 Premier League games so far this season. Haaland’s will to win was a small part of City’s win. On this display, it is evident City’s number 9 is determined to pick up where he left off last season.