Haaland Scores Twice as Manchester City Triumph to Climb to the Summit.

The Norwegian goal machine bagged a double to help Manchester City defeat beleaguered West Ham United for a fifth consecutive Premier League victory.

The win moved them to the league's summit, a single point ahead of their title rivals, a side that can reclaim top spot in their evening fixture.

West Ham, managed by Nuno, were desperate for a strong opening but conceded early within the opening five when Haaland scored at the second attempt.

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 seven minutes before half-time, collecting Haaland's pass before jinking forward and hammering a shot into the top corner.

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

The striker's brace sealed a joyless festive period for the Hammers, as they remain anchored inside the relegation zone.

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

This was City's seventh straight win in all competitions and the team are building the kind of run that often leads to trophies.

The Norwegian's opener and 69th-minute strike continued an astonishing campaign where he has notched 19 in the Premier League.

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

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

Hammers' Troubles: A Miserable Christmas

For the West Ham fans, any hope of a shock triumph was extinguished almost immediately of kick-off.

Nuno's side have failed to see a new managerial bounce, with only two victories and now without a victory in their last six league fixtures.

This leaves them in 18th place, three points adrift, with the gap could grow as rivals have fixtures remaining.

Aside from a few half-chances for their winger and a set-piece, they offered little trouble for the opposition goalkeeper.

Historically, West Ham have avoided the drop when not bottom at Christmas, providing a glimmer of hope for this season.

What's Next?

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

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