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

The Norwegian goal machine scored twice to help the reigning champions overcome beleaguered West Ham United for a fifth straight top-flight triumph.

The win propelled them into first place, one point clear of Arsenal, who have a chance to retake top spot later on Saturday.

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

West Ham's defense was breached with ease and Haaland unbelievably missed a close-range header soon after scoring.

The Dutchman doubled the lead seven minutes before half-time, collecting Haaland's pass before driving forward and firing a shot into the top corner.

In the second half, the London side sought a consolation however Jarrod Bowen could only find the side netting and dragged another shot wide.

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

Manchester City Analysis: A Dominant Display

This was City's seventh straight win in every competition and Pep Guardiola's side are starting to put together the sort of streak that often leads to trophies.

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

After Reijnders thumped home the second, the outcome was never in doubt as City stretched their impressive unbeaten run against sides in the relegation zone.

Alphonse Areola saved from two City players late on, yet City's comfortable win means they have not lost against West Ham in two decades of league meetings.

West Ham Analysis: Festive Struggles

For the West Ham fans, all optimism of a surprise result was extinguished within five minutes of kick-off.

Nuno's side have not enjoyed a new managerial bounce, winning just two and now without a victory in their last six league games.

Consequently, they sit in 18th place, three points from safety, with the gap potentially widening as other teams have fixtures remaining.

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

Historically, West Ham have avoided the drop when outside the bottom place at Christmas, offering a faint 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.

West Ham United: The Hammers welcome Fulham in London on the same day.