The roar of Anfield still echoed when Erling Haaland, Manchester City’s formidable striker, turned to his phone. It wasn’t to celebrate a victory, but to acknowledge a moment of brilliance from a rival – Dominik Szoboszlai’s stunning free-kick that ignited Liverpool’s dramatic comeback.
Haaland’s gesture wasn’t a formal statement or a press conference soundbite. It was a simple, seven-word message shared on Snapchat, a fleeting image of Szoboszlai’s goal accompanied by: “Domi what a goal smile a bit.” The post quickly spread, a surprising display of sportsmanship amidst a fierce Premier League battle.
The playful caption hinted at more than just admiration for the goal itself. It subtly acknowledged the rollercoaster of a match for Szoboszlai, who also received a late red card, adding another layer of complexity to his performance.
This wasn’t a newfound respect forged in the heat of competition. Haaland and Szoboszlai’s connection runs deeper, tracing back to their days at RB Salzburg. There, they weren’t rivals, but teammates – a dynamic duo that dominated the Austrian Bundesliga and announced their arrival on the Champions League stage.
Their partnership at Salzburg was explosive, a preview of the stars they would become. They understood each other’s movements, anticipated passes, and created havoc for opposing defenses. That shared history clearly hadn’t faded with their move to England’s biggest clubs.
Even during the intense match, the bond was visible. As Szoboszlai prepared to take a crucial penalty, he engaged Haaland in a brief exchange, attempting to unsettle the City striker. It was a competitive moment, but one laced with familiarity.
Haaland later revealed the content of their conversation, a lighthearted jab: “This is the first time I don’t want to speak with you. Maybe next time?” It underscored a friendship that transcends the rivalry, a mutual respect that endures despite competing for the Premier League title.
Their story is a reminder that even in the most competitive arenas, genuine connections can flourish. Haaland’s public praise wasn’t just about a spectacular goal; it was a testament to a friendship forged in shared ambition and mutual admiration, a bond that continues to resonate even as they stand on opposite sides of the pitch.
