Haaland alleges Porto defender grabbed his bottom in heated clash
Erling Haaland has accused Porto defender Pablo Rosario of grabbing his bottom during a heated confrontation on the pitch in Manchester City's Champions League win over Porto. The incident, which saw both players receive cautions, followed Haaland's brace that secured the 2‑0 victory.
Haaland scored twice in Portugal, giving City a 2‑0 win in their opening Champions League fixture. The Norway international, now joint all‑time top scorer for Manchester City in the competition with Sergio Aguero on 36 goals, celebrated the strike that broke the deadlock just two minutes after the restart. He sealed the win with a 91st‑minute clincher after goalkeeper Diogo Costa had kept Porto in the game with a string of fine saves in the first half.
Haaland praised his side, saying they controlled the first half but felt uncomfortable when Porto pressed high. He added that winning such games is essential for a strong start to the season, as any slip brings pressure.
The on‑field clash and cautions
Both Haaland and Rosario were booked for the on‑pitch clash, and a heated confrontation between players and staff erupted in the tunnel at half‑time. The dispute added to the bad‑tempered atmosphere that characterised the match from the outset.
Reactions and broader context
In an interview with Norway’s TV 2, Haaland said, “I was really keen on a hat‑trick and it seemed like he was very eager to stop me from getting it.
“It was a little interesting, that – you’ll be seeing a picture where he’s grabbing my bottom. It’ll be interesting to see that picture,” he added.
The 26‑year‑old noted that the encounter was a difficult man‑on‑man fight against a top team, describing Porto as impressive. Speaking to Amazon Prime after the match, he said the side controlled the first half and could have added more goals. He stressed that winning games early in the Champions League is vital, otherwise pressure mounts and the season’s trajectory becomes uncertain.
Comments Sport Daniel Marsh Senior Sports Reporter recorded the incident at 16:37 on Sep 9 2026, with View 2 Images accompanying the story. The accompanying Image by Clive Brunskill shows Haaland and Rosario grappling on the pitch, while further Images capture the post‑match reactions.