West Ham vs Man City: Haaland’s Double Secures Dominant Victory for Citizens

City’s Commanding Performance at the Etihad

Manchester City delivered an emphatic 3-0 victory over West Ham United in their Premier League clash on December 20, 2025. The match showcased City’s superior quality as they dominated proceedings from start to finish, moving to the top of the Premier League – at least for a few hours. This victory was particularly significant as it represented a seventh win on the trot for Pep Guardiola’s side, highlighting their excellent form heading into the festive period.

Haaland’s Historic Achievement

The Norwegian striker was once again the star of the show, scoring two goals and making another as Manchester City underlined their growing title credentials. Just five minutes into the match, Haaland scored goal number 24 this season when Phil Foden’s cross found him near the penalty spot, and while his first effort was blocked, the ball fell kindly back and he smashed a shot high past Alphonse Areola. His performance was remarkable not just for the goals, but for moving ahead of Club legend Francis Lee with his 149th goal in a Manchester City shirt.

Complete Team Effort

First-half goals from Erling Haaland and Tijjani Reijnders gave the Blues a comfortable 2-0 lead at the break. Despite the Hammers improving markedly after the restart, Haaland settled the victory with his second of the game midway through the second-half. City were in complete control and were content to play patiently and wait for openings, demonstrating the tactical maturity that has become their trademark under Guardiola.

West Ham’s Relegation Worries Deepen

For West Ham, the defeat compounds their difficult season. The Hammers are now guaranteed to spend Christmas in the relegation zone, three points from safety, having fallen to their 10th defeat of a dismal season. The performance highlighted the significant gap between the two sides, with West Ham offering little aside from a Jarrod Bowen cross that ran through the box.

Title Race Implications

This victory keeps City firmly in the Premier League title race. The comprehensive nature of the win, coupled with their impressive winning streak, sends a strong message to their rivals. With Haaland in sensational form and the team clicking at the right time, Manchester City have positioned themselves as serious contenders for yet another Premier League crown.