Haaland Fires as Manchester City Triumph to Go to the Summit.

Erling Haaland found the net on two occasions to fire the reigning champions overcome beleaguered West Ham United for a fifth consecutive top-flight win.

This result propelled them to the league's summit, a single point ahead of their title rivals, who can reclaim top spot in their evening fixture.

West Ham, under Nuno Espirito Santo, needed a strong opening but found themselves behind inside five minutes when Haaland converted at the second attempt.

West Ham's defense were cut open all too easily and Haaland somehow sent a free header wide shortly after his opening goal.

The Dutchman did get on the scoresheet shortly before the break, taking Haaland's pass before driving forward and firing a finish into the top corner.

In the second half, the London side tried to claw something back but Jarrod Bowen could only find the side netting and sent another effort off target.

Haaland's second goal sealed a miserable festive period for the Hammers, as they remain stuck inside the relegation zone.

Manchester City Analysis: A Dominant Display

It marked City's seventh consecutive win in all competitions and the team are starting to put together the sort of streak that often leads to major silverware.

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

Once Reijnders slammed in the second, the outcome seemed certain as City extended their impressive unbeaten run against sides in the drop zone.

The goalkeeper denied two City players late on, but City's comfortable win means they have not lost against West Ham in two decades of league meetings.

Hammers' Troubles: Festive Struggles

The traveling support, all optimism of a shock triumph vanished within five minutes of kick-off.

Nuno's side have not enjoyed a new managerial bounce, with only two victories and now without a victory in their last six league fixtures.

This leaves them 18th in the table, three points from safety, with the gap could grow as other teams have games in hand.

Aside from a couple of opportunities for their winger and a well-struck free-kick, they offered little threat for the City keeper.

In the past, West Ham have survived relegation when not bottom at Christmas, offering a faint hope for the current campaign.

Upcoming Fixtures

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

Nuno's team: They host Fulham at their home ground on the same day.