Erling Haaland made history by giving Manchester City a 1-0 lead at halftime against rivals Liverpool in the early kick-off.
City and Liverpool kicked off the league at Etihad Stadium following a two-week international break, marking the last break of the season before March.
Haaland’s participation in the game was uncertain after he pulled out of Norway’s final Euro 2024 qualifying group game, which ended in a 3-3 draw against Scotland.
Despite the initial injury concern, Haaland was fit to start. In the 26th minute, he received a pass from Nathan Ake and unleashed a powerful shot just outside the six-yard box, beating Alisson Becker and giving City the lead.
Haaland makes PL history
The goal marked his 14th in the current league season, reaching a total of 50 goals overall. According to TNT Sports, he achieved the milestone of 50 league goals in just 48 games, making him the fastest player to accomplish this feat.
Before the Norwegian striker, the record for the quickest 50 Premier League goals belonged to Andy Cole, who achieved it in 65 games, while Alan Shearer, the all-time leading goalscorer, reached the milestone in 66 games.
As reported by BBC Sports, since his move to England last season, the 23-year-old has faced 21 clubs and scored against 20 of them. The only team to escape his potent left foot is the London club Brentford.
In his debut season, the 23-year-old played a pivotal role in helping Pep Guardiola’s team secure a historic treble. His outstanding performances earned him a Ballon d’Or nomination, although he ultimately lost the award to Lionel Messi, who clinched his record-extending eighth title.
Erling Haaland has scored 50 Premier League goals quicker than anyone else!
? @Oracle pic.twitter.com/priKM4VpuQ
— Premier League (@premierleague) November 25, 2023