Haaland Fires as City Triumph to Climb Top.

Erling Haaland scored twice to help Manchester City defeat beleaguered West Ham United for a fifth straight Premier League triumph.

The win moved them top of the table, a single point ahead of Arsenal, who can reclaim top spot later on Saturday.

The visiting team, managed by Nuno, needed a positive start however conceded early inside five minutes when Haaland tucked home at the second attempt.

West Ham's defense was breached all too easily and Haaland unbelievably sent a free header wide soon after his opening goal.

The Dutchman did get on the scoresheet seven minutes before half-time, taking Haaland's pass before driving forward and hammering a shot into the roof of the net.

After the interval, West Ham tried to claw something back however Jarrod Bowen hit the side netting and sent another effort off target.

Haaland's second goal sealed a miserable festive period for the Hammers, who are stuck inside the bottom three.

City's Performance: Haaland and Team-Mates Looking Imperious

This was City's seventh consecutive win in all competitions and Pep Guardiola's side are building the sort of streak that often leads to major silverware.

Haaland's early goal and 69th-minute strike extended an remarkable season where he has scored 19 league goals.

After Reijnders thumped home the second, the end result seemed certain as City extended their remarkable unbeaten run against sides in the drop zone.

The goalkeeper denied two City players late on, yet City's commanding win means they remain unbeaten against West Ham in their past 20 league games.

Hammers' Troubles: A Miserable Christmas

The traveling support, any hope of a surprise result 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 18th in the table, three points adrift, with the gap potentially widening as other teams have fixtures remaining.

Other than a few half-chances for their winger and a set-piece, they offered little threat for the City keeper.

Historically, West Ham have survived relegation when not bottom at Christmas, offering a faint hope for this season.

Upcoming Fixtures

Pep Guardiola's men: They enjoy a week off before playing again with a visit to Nottingham Forest.

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