Erling Haaland Scores Twice as Manchester City Triumph to Go Top.

Erling Haaland bagged a double to help the reigning champions beat struggling West Ham United for a fifth straight Premier League triumph.

The win moved them top of the table, a single point ahead of Arsenal, a side that have a chance to retake top spot in their evening fixture.

The visiting team, managed by Nuno, needed a strong opening but conceded early within the opening five when Haaland tucked home at the second attempt.

West Ham's defense was breached with ease and Haaland somehow sent a free header wide shortly after scoring.

The Dutchman did get on the scoresheet seven minutes before half-time, collecting Haaland's pass before jinking forward and firing a finish into the roof of the net.

In the second half, West Ham tried to claw something back however their forward 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 anchored inside the bottom three.

City's Performance: A Dominant Display

This was City's seventh straight win in every competition and the team are starting to put together the sort of streak that often leads to trophies.

Haaland's early goal and second-half finish extended an astonishing season where he has notched 19 in the Premier League.

After Reijnders thumped home the second goal, the outcome seemed certain as City stretched their impressive unbeaten run against sides in the relegation zone.

Alphonse Areola saved from Phil Foden and Savinho late on, yet City's commanding win means they have not lost against West Ham in their past 20 league games.

West Ham Analysis: Festive Struggles

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

The team have failed to see a boost from a coaching change, with only two victories and now without a victory in their past six league fixtures.

Consequently, they sit 18th in the table, three points from safety, with the gap potentially widening as other teams have fixtures remaining.

Other than a couple of opportunities for their winger and a well-struck free-kick, they created minimal trouble 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.

Upcoming Fixtures

Manchester City: They have a break before playing again with a visit to Nottingham Forest.

Nuno's team: They host Fulham in London on the identical date.