“It was about time I didn’t score a hat-trick”: Erling Haaland quips after standout performance against Liverpool

The Norwegian superstar was in ruthless form at the Etihad Stadium, netting three goals to send Manchester City cruising into the FA Cup semi-finals with a dominant 4-0 victory over rivals Liverpool on April 4, 2026.

Haaland opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 39th minute, added a second just before half-time, and completed his hat-trick early in the second half. Antoine Semenyo grabbed the other goal as City completely outclassed a struggling Liverpool side, who missed a penalty through Mohamed Salah and never looked like mounting a comeback.

After the match, Haaland spoke to TNT Sports with his trademark mix of humility and hunger:

“I’m super happy to be at Man City! It was about time I didn’t score a hat-trick so… it was the right moment.”

He added:

“This club, we have to win trophies and we have to perform at the best and biggest stage.”

The comments perfectly capture Haaland’s mindset — even after yet another clinical display (his 28th career hat-trick), he’s already looking ahead to lifting silverware and shining on football’s grandest stages.

Clinical as Ever: Haaland’s Numbers

• 3 goals from just 3 shots on target
• Completed his brace by half-time and sealed the hat-trick in the 57th minute
• Subbed off in the 77th minute to a standing ovation from the Etihad faithful
• Now boasting an incredible 46 goals in 50 games across club and country this season

Liverpool started brightly but faded badly. City’s control was total, with the home side advancing to the semi-finals for the eighth successive season.