Erling Haaland paid tribute to Norway’s King Harald V after scoring twice in Manchester City’s 4-1 victory away to Crystal Palace in the second round of the Premier League.
The result gave Manchester City back-to-back wins at the start of the new season, while Haaland maintained his outstanding early-season form with a brace that played a decisive part in his side’s emphatic victory.
After the final whistle, the Norway striker posted a message on his personal social media account dedicated to the Norwegian monarch.
“Your Majesty King Harald, rest in peace.”
News of King Harald V’s death emerged before the match began. Haaland’s two goals, followed by his public tribute, gave Manchester City’s victory an especially poignant context.
The Norwegian forward was once again central to his club’s success as Manchester City secured all three points at Crystal Palace. His contribution continued a strong run of performances in the opening rounds of the campaign, with the two goals helping his side overcome Crystal Palace by a three-goal margin.
Haaland’s message also reflected King Harald V’s long-standing interest in Norwegian sport, particularly football. The monarch had regularly shown support for the Norwegian national team and maintained a close interest in its progress.
Following strong performances by Norway in recent international tournaments, King Harald V invited members of the national team to the palace. During those meetings, he congratulated the players on their achievements and expressed his support for their performances.
The tribute came shortly after Haaland had helped Manchester City produce one of the most convincing results of the second Premier League round. The defending side’s away win over Crystal Palace marked their second successive victory in the new season and underlined Haaland’s importance to the team’s attacking threat.
While the match was decided by Manchester City’s goals on the pitch, Haaland’s post-match words turned attention towards Norway and the country’s royal family. His short message offered a personal acknowledgement of the monarch at the end of a highly productive evening for the striker.
The second round of the Premier League concluded early this morning, with Manchester City’s 4-1 success confirming their perfect start after two matches. Haaland’s double was the defining individual contribution of the game, while his tribute ensured the evening was also marked by events beyond football.
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