Sport

How was Haaland “pocketed” by Rudiger against Real Madrid?

Erling Haaland was unsuccessful in scoring for Man City against Real Madrid as he was locked away most of the time by Antonio Rudiger.

Haaland, the author of 51 goals this season, was silenced by Antonio Rudiger for the entirety of City’s 1-1 draw with Real Madrid at the Bernabeu.

At the beginning of the match, Haaland had two shots towards the home team’s goal, but both were neutralized by goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. After that, he was barely able to pose a threat as he was locked by Rudiger like a shadow.

Haaland was followed by Rudiger for the whole match

Statistics show that Haaland only had 21 touches of the ball in the whole game, fewer than any other player on the field, behind both goalkeepers Courtois (43) and Ederson (29).

Instead, Man City had to rely on Kevin De Bruyne’s goal to leave the Spanish capital with a draw.

At the end of the match, Marca only gave Haaland 3/10 points, the lowest among the players. In contrast, Rudiger received 10/10 points for his success in keeping Haaland quiet. The Chelsea midfielder has done what not many defenders have done this season when he “pocketed” the Norwegian striker.

Haaland only touched the ball 21 times the whole game

Coach Carlo Ancelotti was full of praise for his defender after the game: “Rudiger was excellent. It was a top performance. He’s so good, a player with experience and great quality. It was not easy but he played very well. I am very happy with Toni.”

Fans on social media also praised Rudiger for the performance:

“I even saw Haaland so thank Rudiger for this advanced session.”

“Rudiger has really played at a high level.”

“Rudiger’s Mastery to Stop Haaland”.

Related Posts

‘I played against Jack Nicklaus – this is what I think about Tiger Woods GOAT debate’

Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods are two of the all-time greats, but who boasts the better career? Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods at the 150th Open Championship. (Image:…

Rory McIlroy provides damning stance of LIV Golf and PGA Tour stars over merger

A report earlier this week claimed that PGA Tour players were demanding that LIV Golf members handed the money they had earned from the Saudi league back in…

Tiger Woods labelled ‘petty, vindictive and greedy’ over latest PGA Tour rumour

PGA Tour golfers Tiger Woods and Patrick Cantlay were labelled ‘petty, vindictive and greedy’ over the latest rumour surrounding the LIV Golf League. Prominent golf journalist Alan Shipnuck…

Despite Tiger Woods & Co’s ‘Vindictive’ Actions, Bryson DeChambeau Proves He’s the Bigger Person With PGA of America Gesture

On September 17, the PGA of America made a statement ahead of the Presidents Cup. Despite LIV Golfers already being allowed to compete at the Ryder Cup and…

One Burning LIV Golf Question Plagues Fans Despite Big Ryder Cup Announcement

One Burning LIV Golf Question Plagues Fans Despite Big Ryder Cup Announcement: ‘Were They Not Eligible Before?’ There has been no update on the PIF merger so far….

‘Insane’ Tiger Woods Accusation From Open Championship Commentator Leaves Fans Demanding Punishment

Tiger Woods has been a major talking point ahead of the 2024 Open Championship at Royal Troon, with former pros and pundits alike questioning the 48 year old’s…