Erling Haaland Nets a Brace as Man City Triumph to Move to the Summit.
The Norwegian striker added to his total league goals of the campaign.
Match Summary
Manchester City go to the summit in the Premier League following their victory.
Erling Haaland takes his tally to 19 league goals this campaign.
The Dutch midfielder scores another for City prior to the interval.
Erling Haaland found the net on two occasions to help the reigning champions defeat beleaguered 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 can reclaim top spot in their evening fixture.
The visiting team, managed by Nuno, were desperate for a strong opening however found themselves behind within the opening five when Haaland scored at the second time of asking.
The Hammers was breached 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 driving forward and firing a shot into the top corner.
After the interval, the London side sought a consolation but Jarrod Bowen could only find the side netting and sent another effort off target.
Haaland's second goal then ensured a miserable Christmas for the Hammers, as they remain stuck inside the relegation zone.
Manchester City Analysis: Haaland and Team-Mates Looking Imperious
This was 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 extended an remarkable season where he has scored 19 league goals.
After Reijnders slammed in the second goal, the outcome seemed certain as City stretched their remarkable unbeaten run against sides in the relegation zone.
The goalkeeper saved from two City players late on, yet City's comfortable 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 kick-off.
The team have not enjoyed a new managerial bounce, with only two victories and now without a victory in their last six league games.
This leaves them in 18th place, three points adrift, with the gap potentially widening as rivals have fixtures remaining.
Aside from a couple of opportunities for their winger and a well-struck free-kick, they offered little trouble for the City keeper.
In the past, West Ham have avoided the drop when outside the bottom place at Christmas, offering a faint hope for this season.
Upcoming Fixtures
Pep Guardiola's men: They have a break before returning to action with a visit to Nottingham Forest.
West Ham United: They host Fulham at their home ground on the same day.
