Manchester City midfielder Enzo Fernandez has praised teammate Erling Haaland after the Norwegian striker scored twice in City’s 2-0 Champions League victory over FC Porto on Tuesday.
Haaland produced the decisive moments in the second half, helping City secure an important away victory after Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa had frustrated the English side for much of the opening period.
Fernandez played a key role in the opening goal, delivering the cross that Haaland converted from close range.
Following the match, the Argentina international described Haaland as an “animal” and a “beast” while highlighting the striker’s mentality both on and off the pitch.
“Every time I step onto the pitch, I will look for him, and I hope to provide him with many more assists so he can score goals like that,” Fernandez said.
The former Chelsea midfielder also praised Haaland’s character, saying the striker had made him feel welcome since his arrival at the Manchester club.
Fernandez was making his Champions League debut for City following his move from Chelsea in a major transfer deal.
Haaland doubled City’s advantage during stoppage time after producing a clever one-touch finish from Rayan Ait-Nouri’s pass.
The brace also saw Porto become the 22nd different opponent Haaland has scored against in the Champions League.
The Norwegian striker was also a prolific scorer in the competition last season, registering eight goals in 10 appearances before City’s campaign ended with elimination by Real Madrid in the round of 16.
City had to remain patient in Portugal before finding their breakthrough, with Porto goalkeeper Costa making several important saves to deny Haaland during the first half.
However, the forward eventually found his range after the interval and delivered the goals that secured all three points for Pep Guardiola’s side.
