'You'll See a Picture': Haaland Claims Porto's Pablo Rosario Grabbed His Bottom During Heated Man City Clash

Erling Haaland claimed Porto midfielder Pablo Rosario grabbed his bottom during a stoppage-time confrontation in Manchester City's 2-0 Champions League win at Estádio do Dragão, a match in which the Norwegian striker scored both goals to open City's 2026/27 European campaign.

The incident involving Rosario came in stoppage time, just moments after Haaland had scored his second to put the result beyond doubt. The pair became embroiled in a physical tussle before referee Szymon Marciniak intervened and showed both players yellow cards.

Man City's own match report says Rosario pulled Haaland back and would not let go as the striker attempted to get back to his feet.

Erling Haaland Makes Bizarre Bottom-Grab Claim

Speaking to Norwegian broadcaster after the match, Haaland suggested the Porto midfielder had gone beyond simply trying to stop him from completing his hat-trick. 'I was really keen on a hat-trick and it seemed like he was very eager to stop me from getting it,' he said.

'It was a little interesting, that – you'll be seeing a picture where he's grabbing my bottom,' Haaland added. 'It'll be interesting to see that picture.'

Haaland's comments came after a night in Porto that had already seen tempers rise between the two sides. The 26-year-old had put City ahead two minutes after half-time with a header before striking again in the first minute of stoppage time.

The second goal was followed almost immediately by the confrontation with Rosario, with the two players wrestling on the pitch before being separated.

Tempers Flare Between City and Porto

The Rosario incident was not the only flashpoint in a contentious encounter. Late in the first half, Porto midfielder Gabri Veiga required treatment after a clash with Manchester City defender Marc Guéhi.

Porto players were unhappy with the incident and tensions continued to rise as the teams headed towards the tunnel at half-time. Security staff were reportedly required to intervene as players and staff became involved in a confrontation.

There was further controversy around an incident involving City captain Rúben Dias and Porto head coach Francesco Farioli near the tunnel. Reports suggested UEFA could consider disciplinary action depending on the referee's and match delegate's reports. City went on to secure an opening-night victory.

Haaland Continues Stunning Champions League Record

For Haaland, the night's main achievement was his brace. His opening goal came in the 47th minute, when he rose to head home a cross after City had dominated much of the first half without finding a breakthrough. His second arrived in added time after Rayan Aït-Nouri kept the attack alive and supplied the Norwegian, who finished to seal all three points.

The double took Haaland to 59 Champions League goals in 59 appearances, according to UEFA, underlining the scoring rate he has maintained in Europe's premier club competition. He was also named Player of the Match.

City controlled 64 per cent of possession and registered 10 shots on target compared with none for Porto, according to the club's match statistics.

For all the focus on the confrontation, Haaland's most important contribution in Porto again came in front of goal.

His brace secured City's start to their Champions League campaign, while his account of the clash with Rosario provided one of the night's main talking points.