It was undeniably a stellar week for Haaland, who clinched the UEFA Men’s Player of the Year award on Thursday as he provided another standout performance by scoring a hat-trick during City’s dominant victory over Fulham.
Haaland’s contributions began with an assist for Julian Alvarez, setting up the opening goal. As the game progressed, with City leading 2-1 going into the second half, Alvarez returned the favor with a splendid first-time pass that sent Haaland charging into the box, resulting in City’s third goal.
Displaying composure, the Norwegian football sensation calmly converted a penalty after Issa Diop fouled Alvarez, further extending City’s lead with their fourth goal.
Haaland’s performance earned him the well-deserved title of man of the match. He capped off his stellar display with a brilliant first-time finish, capitalizing on Sergio Gomez’s cut-back, securing yet another match ball.
Nonetheless, Fulham argued that a pivotal moment occurred just before halftime when Tim Ream rapidly equalized, merely a minute after Alvarez’s opening goal.
Video assistant referee Tony Harrington determined that an offside Manuel Akanji was not interfering with play as Nathan Ake’s 10-yard header found the back of the net, despite Akanji making an attempt for the ball. This decision sparked vehement protests, even leading to a booking for Fulham’s manager, Marco Silva.
