Manchester City secured a convincing 3-0 Premier League victory over West Ham United at the Etihad Stadium, with Erling Haaland scoring twice to continue his sensational goal-scoring form. The win marks City’s fifth straight Premier League victory, keeping them firmly in the title race as they chase leaders Arsenal.
Haaland Scores Twice to Open Up West Ham
West Ham, managed by Nuno Espirito Santo, needed a positive start at the Etihad, but were undone inside the first five minutes. Haaland scored on the rebound after his initial shot was saved by Alphonse Areola, setting the tone for the match.
Despite missing a close-range header shortly after, City’s dominance was clear. Haaland’s movement and finishing proved too much for the Hammers, who struggled to contain the Norwegian striker throughout the first half.
Tijjani Reijnders Strikes Before Half-Time
The Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders gave City a commanding 2-0 lead in the 38th minute. Picking up a pass from Haaland, Reijnders jinked past defenders and hammered a finish into the roof of the net, leaving West Ham with an uphill battle.
West Ham attempted to respond in the second half. Jarrod Bowen forced a shot wide and missed other opportunities, but City’s defence and goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma remained largely untroubled.
Haaland Completes Second Goal and Extends Streak
Haaland scored his second of the match in the 69th minute, ensuring a joyless Christmas for the Hammers, who remain in the relegation zone. The Norwegian striker has now tallied 19 Premier League goals and 38 in all competitions for the season, reinforcing his status as one of the most lethal forwards in world football.
City extended their unbeaten run against teams starting the day in the relegation zone to 48 matches, a streak dating back to 2008, and have not lost against West Ham in their last 20 league meetings.
Pep Guardiola: City Look Imperious
Pep Guardiola’s side are now putting together a streak reminiscent of past title-winning campaigns. The Spaniard emphasized that maintaining pressure on Arsenal at the turn of the year is key to staying in the title race.
“We are building momentum and showing consistency across all competitions,” Guardiola said, praising his team’s pressing and attacking efficiency.
West Ham: Struggles Continue Under Nuno Espirito Santo
West Ham fans endured a difficult afternoon. The team has now gone six league games without a victory, with just two wins under Nuno since he replaced Graham Potter in September.
Key chances for the Hammers included Crysensio Summerville’s shot blocked by Donnarumma and Lucas Paqueta’s free-kick, but overall, West Ham offered little threat. The defeat leaves them 18th in the table, three points adrift of safety, with more games to play before the Christmas period.
Historically, West Ham have survived relegation during past Christmas spells when not at the bottom, offering a slim hope as they approach the festive fixtures.
Player Ratings: Manchester City vs West Ham
- Erling Haaland (Manchester City) – 8.77/10 – Two goals and constant threat upfront
- Tijjani Reijnders (Manchester City) – 7.95/10 – Brilliant finish for City’s second goal
- Phil Foden (Manchester City) – 7.85/10 – Creative influence in midfield
- Gianluigi Donnarumma (Manchester City) – 7.71/10 – Solid in goal, kept clean sheet
- R. Cherki (Manchester City) – 7.97/10 – Active in attacking build-up
Next Fixtures
- Manchester City: Next game at Nottingham Forest on 27 December (12:30 GMT).
- West Ham United: Host Fulham on 27 December (15:00 GMT).
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