Erling Haaland nets brace in Man City's 4-1 win at Palace after tribute to late King

Erling Haaland scored a brace to help Manchester City secure a commanding 4-1 Premier League victory at Crystal Palace on Friday, August 28, 2026. The Norwegian striker's dominant performance came just hours after he shared an emotional online tribute to his country's late monarch, King Harald V.

How did Erling Haaland perform at Selhurst Park?

Haaland was clinical in front of goal, scoring twice as Manchester City cruised to a 4-1 win over Crystal Palace. His new teammate, French winger Rayan Cherki, also scored two goals in the second half at Selhurst Park. The result gave new head coach Enzo Maresca his second consecutive Premier League win since taking over from Pep Guardiola. City had to overcome some early pressure from the home side before their quality told.

The victory was built on a solid team performance. Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma started behind a defense that included Rúben Dias as captain and Joško Gvardiol. The win keeps City's perfect start to the 2026-27 season intact as they chase another title.

What was the reaction to Rayan Cherki's post-match interview?

The match's other two-goal hero, Rayan Cherki, created a memorable moment off the pitch. Despite being named Player of the Match, the young Frenchman gave a brutally honest assessment of his own display in a live interview with Sky Sports. "My performance is so-so," Cherki said. "In the first half, we didn't find the space, and I played so s***."

His use of strong language forced the broadcaster to issue an on-air apology. Cherki explained his self-criticism was driven by a desire to improve and provide more for Haaland. "I need to show them I want to play, I want to score, I want to give an assist to Erling," he stated. Video footage showed Haaland standing beside him with a noticeable smirk during the candid exchange.

Why did Erling Haaland pay tribute to King Harald V?

Before taking the field in London, Haaland posted a heartfelt message on his Instagram account. He shared a portrait of King Harald V of Norway, who died on Friday, August 28, at the age of 89. The royal palace had announced the monarch was in "extremely serious" condition the day before his passing.

Haaland's caption, written in Norwegian, read: "Rest in peace, King Harald. Thank you for everything you meant to Norway." He added, "It was an honour to meet you." The striker and his national team captain, Martin Ødegaard, had met King Harald at the Royal Palace in Oslo just weeks earlier, following Norway's historic run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Norwegian football federation postponed matches as a mark of respect.

What does this mean for Manchester City's season?

The comprehensive away win demonstrates City's continued strength under new management. After a late comeback win against Bournemouth in their opener, the team showed more fluency in dismantling Crystal Palace. The partnership between Haaland and the newly-arrived Cherki, who joined from Lyon, looks immediately promising. Both players found the net twice, suggesting a potent attacking combination for the season ahead.

Enzo Maresca will be pleased with the four goals and the three points. For Crystal Palace, managed by Pierre Sage, the search for a first win continues after losses to Everton and now City.

• Erling Haaland scored two goals in Manchester City's 4-1 Premier League victory at Crystal Palace on August 28, 2026.
• Teammate Rayan Cherki also scored twice but sparked controversy with a swear word in a live post-match TV interview.
• Before the match, Haaland paid tribute online to Norway's King Harald V, who died that same day at age 89.
• The win gives new manager Enzo Maresca a perfect six points from his first two league games in charge.