What Jordan Pickford did to get rid of Erling Haaland before missing the penalty kick

Manchester City’s struggles continued on Boxing Day, as they drew 1-1 with a stubborn Everton side at the Etihad Stadium.

The turning point in the match came in the 53rd minute when Jordan Pickford saved Erling Haaland from a penalty kick. This loss left City fans and players distraught, and the moment became one of the highlights of the match.

After Savinho was fouled inside the penalty area, Haaland stepped forward to take the penalty kick. However, Everton’s Pickford was involved in a series of antics to disrupt the striker’s concentration.

What Jordan Pickford was seen doing before Erling Haaland missed the penalty kick

The England international made exaggerated faces, stuck out his tongue and even winked at Haaland in the build-up, adding a psychological edge to the moment.

Despite Haaland’s reputation for composure under pressure, Pickford’s mind games appeared to be working. After guessing the direction of the striker’s shot, Pickford darted to his right to make a crucial save, keeping Everton flexible and dealing a blow to City’s chances of taking the three points.

Jordan Pickford tries to keep Erling Haaland away before the penalty kick…

…So he winked at him after memorizing it?#PLonPrime #MCIEVE pic.twitter.com/vVcb8KtxV3

– Amazon Prime Video Sport (@primevideosport) December 26, 2024

? – Part One: Pickford makes a funny face towards Haaland before the penalty kick.
? – Part Two: Haaland’s reaction is cold and calm.
? – Part 3: Pickford saves the penalty kick.
? – Part Four: Pickford winks at Haaland. pic.twitter.com/NyER1U6cm5

– TheEuropeanLad (@TheEuropeanLad) December 26, 2024

Adding to the tension, Everton captain Seamus Coleman appeared to exchange words with Haaland before the penalty kick, further fueling the psychological battle on the pitch.

City took the lead in the 14th minute through Bernardo Silva, whose timely shot curled into the bottom right corner. However, Everton equalized in the 36th minute when Abdoulaye Doucoure sent in a precise cross which N’Diaye converted with a brilliant touch.

Despite dominating possession and creating chances, City were unable to capitalize on their 2.04 expected goals (xG). Missed chances, including a Haaland penalty, ultimately cost them vital points.

Manchester City is out of sight in the title race

The draw dropped Manchester City to seventh place in the Premier League standings, adding to a series of disappointing performances.

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After beating Leicester City, Liverpool increased their lead at the top of the standings with a game in hand. The closest is Chelsea, which is in second place with 35 points, while Nottingham Forest is in third place with 34 points. Arsenal, who are still favorites to compete with Liverpool for the league title, currently occupies fourth place with 33 points (with a game in hand).