Haaland’s ‘Old-School’ Lesson for Liverpool as FA Cup Record Falls

City’s Dominance Continues in FA Cup Quarter-Finals

Manchester City’s FA Cup journey took another stride forward with a commanding 4-0 victory over Liverpool in the quarter-finals. The win not only solidified their resolve to finish the season strongly but also broke two significant records. With this triumph, City extended their consecutive semi-final appearance streak to eight matches, a feat that has not been matched since the 1880s. They also claimed their 18th straight home win in the competition, surpassing a historic benchmark set by Clapham Rovers.

Haaland’s Return to Form Sparks Confidence

Erling Haaland, the Norway striker, played a pivotal role in the rout, netting a career-high 12th hat-trick for City this season. His performance highlighted his importance as a key player for both club and country, especially with Norway aiming for their first World Cup appearance in 28 years. Haaland’s return to form came after a slump where he had scored just once in his previous seven games across all competitions.

“This club has to win trophies on the biggest stage,” Haaland told TNT Sports. “It’s been some time since I have done it [scored a hat-trick] for City. It is special so I am super happy.”

Despite Pep Guardiola’s touchline ban, assistant Pep Lijnders managed the team and praised Haaland’s contributions. “He is not only lovely but he is a machine to work with,” Lijnders said. “I like the guys who train like that. Compliments to him.” Lijnders, a former Liverpool coach, added: “I am not saying he carries Norway, but we all know how important he is for them, he feels that responsibility.”

Historic Records and Future Goals

With 46 goals in 50 games for club and country this season, Haaland has become a cornerstone of City’s attacking strategy. His hat-trick against Liverpool marked his 12th in 2022, the most among Europe’s top five leagues. The strike also placed him among elite Premier League players, joining Chris Sutton and Sergio Aguero as the third to score in four or more consecutive home games against Liverpool.

City’s FA Cup campaign has been remarkable since Guardiola’s tenure began a decade ago. The club has played 52 matches in the competition, securing 44 wins and 157 goals. Their dominance at Etihad Stadium remains unchallenged, with Middlesbrough being the last team to defeat them there in 2013.

This month will be crucial for City as they aim to maintain their momentum. Their next challenges include a Premier League clash against Chelsea on April 12 and a subsequent FA Cup match against Arsenal. “It’s the part of the season where the business has to be done, the boys feel that,” Lijnders remarked, emphasizing the team’s focus on closing out the year with success.