Erling Haaland Scores Twice as Manchester City Claim Victory to Move to the Summit.

Erling Haaland found the net on two occasions to help Manchester City beat struggling West Ham United for a fifth straight top-flight win.

This result propelled them to the league's summit, a single point ahead of their title rivals, a side that have a chance to retake top spot in their evening fixture.

West Ham, managed by Nuno, were desperate for a positive start but found themselves behind within the opening five when Haaland tucked home at the second time of asking.

West Ham's defense were cut open all too easily and Haaland unbelievably missed a close-range header shortly after his opening goal.

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

After the interval, West Ham sought a consolation however their forward hit the side netting and sent another effort off target.

The striker's brace then ensured a miserable Christmas for the Hammers, as they remain anchored inside the relegation zone.

Manchester City Analysis: Haaland and Team-Mates Looking Imperious

It marked City's seventh consecutive win in every competition and the team are building the kind of run that typically ends with trophies.

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

Once Reijnders slammed in the second goal, the end result seemed certain as City extended their remarkable unbeaten run against sides in the drop zone.

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

West Ham Analysis: Festive Struggles

The traveling support, all optimism of a shock triumph was extinguished almost immediately of the start.

The team have failed to see a new managerial bounce, winning just two and now without a victory in their last six league games.

Consequently, they sit 18th in the table, three points from safety, with the gap potentially widening as rivals have games in hand.

Other than a couple of opportunities for their winger and a set-piece, they offered little trouble for the opposition goalkeeper.

In the past, West Ham have avoided the drop when not bottom at Christmas, providing a glimmer of hope for the current campaign.

Upcoming Fixtures

Pep Guardiola's men: The side have a break before returning to action with a visit to Nottingham Forest.

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