Oslo, November 8, 2023
Haaland Calls City’s Champions League Loss “Embarrassing”
Manchester City’s Erling Haaland took full responsibility after a stunning 3-1 defeat to FK Bodö/Glimt in the Champions League, calling his own performance and the team’s result “embarrassing.”
- Manchester City suffered a surprising 3-1 loss to FK Bodö/Glimt in the Champions League.
- Erling Haaland publicly criticized his own performance, stating he should have scored.
- City coach Pep Guardiola acknowledged the quality of their Norwegian opponents.
- The defeat complicates City’s path to the Champions League knockout stage.
Manchester City’s hopes of swiftly securing a spot in the Champions League round of 16 hit a snag Wednesday, as they fell 3-1 to FK Bodö/Glimt in Norway. The result left players and coach Pep Guardiola searching for answers, with star striker Erling Haaland leading the self-criticism.
Haaland Takes the Blame
“I take full responsibility for not scoring any goals. It’s embarrassing,” Haaland said, according to TNT Sports, immediately after the match. The Norwegian international, playing on home soil, clearly felt the weight of the defeat. “We are doing our best, but something is missing. I take full responsibility, along with our experienced players,” he added. “That’s not good enough. We are Manchester City. It shouldn’t be like that.”
First-Half Deficit Proves Decisive
City found themselves trailing 2-0 at halftime, a deficit that ultimately proved too difficult to overcome. Kasper Högh scored twice in quick succession—in the 22nd and 24th minutes—to give Bodö/Glimt a commanding lead. The home side continued to press after the break, with former Frankfurt player Jens Petter Hauge extending the advantage to 3-0 in the 58th minute with a well-taken solo effort.
Guardiola Acknowledges Opponent’s Quality
Despite a 60th-minute goal from Rayan Cherki offering a glimmer of hope, City’s comeback attempt was hampered by a red card shown to captain Rodri in the 62nd minute for two quick tactical fouls. Guardiola, however, was quick to praise the Norwegian side. “I have the greatest respect for them. They are an absolutely top team,” he said.
Bodö/Glimt’s victory keeps their hopes alive for a playoff spot, while City will need to regroup quickly. Norwegian professional Patrick Berg expressed the elation of his team, stating, “I would say this is the greatest thing we have ever achieved. We beat one of the best football teams in the world and we deserve it.”
dpa
