Here is Haaland: Manchester City were in trouble vs Everton and Erling did this

Manchester City had the mission this Saturday to get a victory at Etihad Stadium against Everton to reach, at least momentarily, the top of the Premier League standings. They started matchday 24 of the tournament two points behind leaders Liverpool, but with the advantage of having played a game less, as they have the game against Brentford pending (scheduled for February 20).

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The Citizens knew that it was key to win, as it allows them to continue depending on themselves to keep the title. But also because it puts the pressure on Liverpool, who will start their match at Anfield Road against Burnley knowing that they have no other result than a win to maintain their place in the standings.

But it was not an easy task for them. The Toffees' coach, Sean Dyche, devised a defensive strategy that prevented Manchester City's attackers from playing freely and that affected the team's performance. That's why during the first half they were unable to create almost any chances to score.

However, that changed after the break. Everton's players started to suffer from fatigue and could no longer fulfill Dyche's plan to perfection. That was taken advantage of by Erling Haaland, who 26 minutes into the second half captured a rebound inside the box after a corner kick and scored the opener with a strong right foot shot that goalkeeper Jordan Pickford could not save. And 15 minutes later again the Norwegian striker was decisive, when he received an assist from Kevin De Bruyne, dribbled past a defender and shot smoothly to double the lead.

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What's next for them?

While they hope Burnley will help them by getting at least a draw against Liverpool this Saturday, Manchester City will have just a few days to rest before their next game. They will begin their journey in the knock-out stages of the Champions League this week, when they travel to Denmark to visit Copenhagen for the first leg of the round of 16.