Haaland Nets a Brace as Man City Claim Victory to Move Top.

The Norwegian goal machine found the net on two occasions to fire the reigning champions overcome struggling West Ham United for a fifth consecutive Premier League win.

The win sent them into first place, one point clear of their title rivals, a side that can reclaim top spot later on Saturday.

West Ham, under Nuno Espirito Santo, needed a positive start but found themselves behind inside five minutes when Haaland converted at the second time of asking.

The Hammers were cut open with ease and Haaland somehow missed a close-range header soon after his opening goal.

The Dutchman doubled the lead seven minutes before half-time, collecting Haaland's pass before driving forward and hammering a finish into the top corner.

In the second half, West Ham sought a consolation however Jarrod Bowen hit the side netting and sent another effort off target.

Haaland's second goal then ensured a joyless festive period for the Hammers, as they remain stuck inside the bottom three.

Manchester City Analysis: A Dominant Display

It marked City's seventh consecutive win in all competitions and the team are building the kind of run that often leads to major silverware.

The Norwegian's opener and second-half finish continued an astonishing season where he has scored 19 in the Premier League.

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

Alphonse Areola denied Phil Foden and Savinho late on, yet City's commanding win means they have not lost against West Ham in two decades of league meetings.

Hammers' Troubles: A Miserable Christmas

For the West Ham fans, all optimism of a surprise result was extinguished within five minutes of the start.

The team have not enjoyed a new managerial bounce, with only two victories and now winless in their past six league games.

This leaves them 18th in the table, three points from safety, with the deficit potentially widening as other teams have games in hand.

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

Historically, West Ham have avoided the drop when not bottom at Christmas, offering a faint hope for this season.

Upcoming Fixtures

Manchester City: They have a break before returning to action with a visit to Nottingham Forest.

Nuno's team: They welcome Fulham at their home ground on the identical date.