Fernández calls Haaland 'animal' after Man City's 2-0 UCL win over Porto
Enzo Fernandez called Erling Haaland an 'animal' and a 'beast' after Haaland's two goals secured a 2-0 Champions League win for Manchester City over FC Porto on Tuesday (Sept 8, 2026). The Argentine midfielder, making his UCL debut for City after a joint-British record transfer from Chelsea, said he will keep looking for Haaland to provide more assists.
For Nigerian fans who follow the Premier League and African players abroad, the praise highlights Haaland's work ethic and the value of teamwork—showing how a star's attitude can lift teammates. It also signals Fernandez's quick integration into City, which may affect his playing time and potential for future transfers involving Nigerian prospects.
Haaland scored both goals: first from Fernandez's cross, second from a one-touch finish off Rayan Aït-Nouri's pass in stoppage time. Porto's keeper Diogo Costa denied Haaland in the first half, but Haaland has now scored against 22 different UCL teams and hit eight goals in ten games last season. Fernandez added that Haaland is also an incredible human who welcomed him to the club.
What can young Nigerian players learn from Haaland's relentless drive and Fernandez's willingness to create chances for teammates about succeeding in top-level football abroad?