Manchester City star Erling Braut Haaland admitted that the match-winning penalty against Fulham was one of the most nervous moments of his life.
The Citizens entered the home encounter looking to overhaul Arsenal at the top of the Premier League table.
Pep Guardiola’s side made a strong start as they took the lead through Julian Alvarez in the 16th minute.
However, in an expected turn of events, Joao Cancelo’s foul on Harry Wilson earned the defender a red card and a penalty for the visitors.
Andreas Pereira made no mistake from the spot as he sent Ederson the wrong way to level the scores.
Despite being reduced to 10 men, City pushed for another goal while the Cottagers were content to sit deep and frustrate their opponents.
Guardiola brought Haaland off the bench with 26 minutes remaining, and the Norwegian made an immediate impact.
The 22-year-old headed home a Kevin de Bruyne cross to spark huge celebrations but the goal was ruled out by VAR.
However, City received a golden opportunity in injury time when Antonee Robinson tripped De Bruyne and the referee pointed to the spot.
Haaland stepped up to take the penalty and scored despite the goalkeeper getting a hand to it.
The immensely talented striker later admitted that it was one of the most nervous moments he had experienced.
He told Sky Sports: “It’s fantastic. I was nervous [for the penalty]. It was one of the most nervous moments of my life, but fantastic.
“A penalty in the last minute, of course I would be nervous. But it’s an amazing feeling.
“I love it. I have been injured for a week and it is really important to win.”
Haaland has been unstoppable this season, bagging 23 goals in 17 appearances in all competitions.
The Norwegian missed the last two matches for City through injury, but he returned today in spectacular fashion to boost City’s title hopes.
