Carlo Ancelotti Praises Real Madrid Defender for Keeping Erling Haaland Quiet

• Erling Haaland only had 21 touches of the ball during Manchester City's game against Real Madrid
• Carlo Ancelotti praised Antonio Rudiger for making sure that Erling Haaland was ineffective
• Madrid and Man City shared the spoils in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final

Keeping Erling Haaland quiet this season has been no easy task, but Real Madrid managed to do it.

The Manchester City attacker failed to fire against the Spanish side as both teams shared the spoils in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final.

The Norwegian striker touched the ball just 21 times, the least of any player on the field and completed six fewer passes than his goalkeeper. Goal only gave Haaland a 5/10 in their player ratings, as the in-form striker was kept quiet by the Madrid defence.

Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has revealed how they were able to stop the lethal striker, praising defender Antonio Rudiger, in particular, for keeping the Manchester City goal machine quiet, 90Min reported.

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"Defensively, we were good. Rudiger against Haaland did well, and the midfield had control. The performance was good, and we are happy. We have strong motivation for the next game," he said.

While Ancelotti was satisfied with his side’s performance in front of their home fans, City boss Pep Guardiola admitted that it was not easy for Haaland, The Evening Standard reported. Guardiola is confident that his side can turn things around at the Etihad, admitting that the game would be like a final.

“Tight, tight game. The Bernabeu in the semi-final, sometimes we had good moments and sometimes it was difficult with the quality they have on the ball. Final next Wednesday at home with our people.

Haaland’s father insults Madrid fans

Earlier, Sports Brief reported how unpleasant scenes were witnessed at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium after Erling Haaland's father, Alfie, clashed with Real Madrid fans.

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The senior Haaland was in the Spanish capital to watch his son, and his Manchester City teammates play Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final.

Alfie Haaland was accused of insulting Real Madrid fans, with footage showing him cupping his ears towards them.