Haaland Scores Twice as Manchester City Triumph to Go Top.

The Norwegian goal machine found the net on two occasions to fire Manchester City beat beleaguered West Ham United for a fifth consecutive top-flight triumph.

The win propelled them into first place, a single point ahead of their title rivals, who can reclaim top spot later on Saturday.

The visiting team, under Nuno Espirito Santo, were desperate for a strong opening but found themselves behind inside five minutes when Haaland tucked home at the second attempt.

The Hammers was breached with ease and Haaland somehow missed a close-range header shortly after scoring.

The Dutchman doubled the lead seven minutes before half-time, taking Haaland's pass before driving forward and hammering a finish into the roof of the net.

In the second half, the London side sought a consolation but their forward could only find the side netting and dragged another shot wide.

Haaland's second goal sealed a joyless Christmas for the Hammers, who are stuck inside the bottom three.

Manchester City Analysis: A Dominant Display

It marked City's seventh straight win in every competition and Pep Guardiola's side are starting to put together the sort of streak that often leads to major silverware.

Haaland's early goal and 69th-minute strike continued an remarkable campaign where he has scored 19 in the Premier League.

After Reijnders slammed in the second, the outcome was never in doubt as City extended their remarkable unbeaten run against sides in the drop zone.

The goalkeeper denied two City players late on, but City's comfortable win means they have not lost against West Ham in two decades of league meetings.

West Ham Analysis: A Miserable Christmas

The traveling support, all optimism of a shock triumph vanished almost immediately of kick-off.

Nuno's side have failed to see a new managerial bounce, winning just two and now winless in their last six league games.

This leaves them in 18th place, three points from safety, with the gap could grow as other teams have fixtures remaining.

Aside from a couple of opportunities for their winger and a set-piece, they created minimal threat for the City keeper.

In the past, West Ham have avoided the drop when outside the bottom place at Christmas, offering a faint hope for this season.

What's Next?

Pep Guardiola's men: The side enjoy a week off before returning to action with a trip to Nottingham Forest.

West Ham United: They host Fulham at their home ground on the identical date.