Haaland Nets a Brace as Man City Win to Move to the Summit.

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

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

West Ham, managed by Nuno, needed a positive start but conceded early within the opening five when Haaland scored at the second time of asking.

West Ham's defense were cut open with ease and Haaland unbelievably sent a free header wide shortly after his opening goal.

Tijjani Reijnders added a second shortly before the break, collecting Haaland's pass before driving forward and hammering a shot 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.

The striker's brace sealed a joyless festive period for the Hammers, who are stuck inside the relegation zone.

Manchester City Analysis: A Dominant Display

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

The Norwegian's opener and second-half finish continued an remarkable campaign where he has scored 19 league goals.

After Reijnders thumped home the second, the end result was never in doubt as City extended their impressive unbeaten run against sides in the relegation zone.

Alphonse Areola saved from Phil Foden and Savinho late on, but City's comfortable win means they remain unbeaten against West Ham in their past 20 league games.

West Ham Analysis: Festive Struggles

The traveling support, all optimism of a shock triumph vanished within five minutes of the start.

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

Consequently, they sit in 18th place, three points adrift, with the deficit could grow as rivals have fixtures remaining.

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

In the past, West Ham have survived relegation when outside the bottom place at Christmas, providing a glimmer of hope for the current campaign.

What's Next?

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

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