Erling Haaland Nets a Brace as Manchester City Triumph to Go to the Summit.

Erling Haaland found the net on two occasions to fire the reigning champions beat struggling West Ham United for a fifth consecutive Premier League triumph.

This result moved them into first place, a single point ahead of Arsenal, a side that have a chance to retake top spot in their evening fixture.

West Ham, managed by Nuno, needed a strong opening however found themselves behind 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 scoring.

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

In the second half, the London side tried to claw something back but their forward could only find the side netting and dragged another shot wide.

The striker's brace sealed a miserable Christmas for the Hammers, as they remain stuck inside the bottom three.

City's Performance: A Dominant Display

It marked City's seventh straight win in all competitions and the team are building the sort of streak that typically ends with major silverware.

Haaland's early goal and 69th-minute strike extended an remarkable season where he has notched 19 in the Premier League.

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

Alphonse Areola saved from two City players late on, but City's commanding win means they have not lost against West Ham in their past 20 league games.

Hammers' Troubles: A Miserable Christmas

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

Nuno's side have not enjoyed a boost from a coaching change, 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 other teams have fixtures remaining.

Other than 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, offering a faint hope for the current campaign.

What's Next?

Manchester City: The side enjoy a week off before returning to action with a visit to Nottingham Forest.

Nuno's team: The Hammers host Fulham at their home ground on the identical date.