The referee SLAPPED ERLING HAALAND in the face at halftime of Manchester City’s thrilling match against Real Madrid.

The striker was furious with French official Francois Letexier after Tuesday’s thrilling 3-3 draw in Spain.

Letexier accidently hit Haaland in the face with the back of his hand as he walked off the pitch.

The incident occurred at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium following the half-time whistle.

Haaland flung his hands up in the air in response, turning around to face the referee, who placed his hands on him to apologize and ensure his safety.

Letexier was gesturing as he dealt with Real Madrid full-back Dani Carvajal’s protests.

Fans reacted quickly to the event on social media, with one comment reading: “The referee slaps Haaland to see if he wakes up in the second half.”

Another wrote, “Ref couldn’t see him because he ghosted the entire half.”

A third supporter joked, “Wake up call from the referee.”

Another wrote, “He didn’t see Haaland was on the pitch.”

Haaland had a rough first half in the Spanish capital, managing only four passes.

He also only managed one shot on goal, which was saved by Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin.

Despite Haaland’s problems, City took an early lead on Tuesday night thanks to Bernardo Silva’s miraculous goal.

However, the hosts scored two goals in two minutes to complete a remarkable first-half comeback.

Ruben Dias’ own goal leveled the score before Rodrygo put Los Blancos ahead.

Phil Foden, however, brought the treble champions level after the break with a magnificent strike from outside the box.

City then completed their own comeback when Josko Gvardiol reclaimed their lead.

That lead lasted only eight minutes as Federico Valverde made it 3-3, leaving the tie in the balance heading into the second leg.