Erling Haaland achieves unique feat after scoring five goals against Luton Town

City thumped Luton Town 6-2 to reach the quarter-finals of the FA Cup

By Web Desk
February 28, 2024
The 23-year-old Haaland's first four goals were all created by star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne (L). - Man City

Erling Haaland struck five times as Manchester City brushed aside Luton Town 6-2 at Kenilworth Road to reach the quarter-finals of the FA Cup on Tuesday.

Haaland became the first top-flight player to score five goals in an FA Cup tie since George Best netted six for Manchester United against Northampton Town in 1970.

Haaland had scored only five goals in his previous 11 appearances for City — a spell hampered by a foot injury that some suggested had reduced the spark in his game.

Luton were clueless against the Norwegian who notched up his eighth City hat-trick before halftime and then added two more after the break.

The 23-year-old Haaland's first four goals were all created by star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne. Mateo Kovacic also scored for City who are unbeaten in 18 games in all competitions.

Luton looked to make a comeback when Jordan Clark scored a sensational effort on the stroke of halftime and netted again early in the second half. But a strong City side didn’t let Luton interrupt their spot in the last eight.

Second-tier leaders Leicester City joined Pep Guardiola's side in the quarter-finals as they defeated Bournemouth 1-0 courtesy Abdul Fatawu's extra-time goal.

Newcastle United also progressed after a penalty shootout at Blackburn Rovers after the tie ended 1-1.

"Kevin De Bruyne is massive. He is doing what he is best at. It's a pleasure playing with him," Haaland, whose hat-trick was his first for City away from home, told ITV.

"We know what we both want from each other. It clicks well. I am getting back to my best. Finally I am feeling good. It's an amazing feeling. It's coming, we're coming. Exciting times ahead. We are ready to attack."

The only concerning thing for City, who lock horns with Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday, was an injury to Jack Grealish who was forced off before halftime due to a groin injury.

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