Erling Haaland Nets a Brace as Manchester City Claim Victory to Climb to the Summit.

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

This result propelled them top of the table, one point clear of Arsenal, who have a chance to retake top spot in their evening fixture.

West Ham, managed by Nuno, were desperate for a strong opening however conceded early within the opening five when Haaland converted at the second time of asking.

The Hammers were cut open with ease and Haaland unbelievably sent a free header wide shortly after scoring.

Tijjani Reijnders did get on the scoresheet shortly before the break, taking Haaland's pass before driving forward and hammering a shot into the roof of the net.

In the second half, the London side tried to claw something back but their forward hit the side netting and sent another effort off target.

Haaland's second goal then ensured a miserable festive period for the visitors, who are stuck inside the bottom three.

City's Performance: Haaland and Team-Mates Looking Imperious

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

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

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

Alphonse Areola saved from Phil Foden and Savinho 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 vanished almost immediately of kick-off.

Nuno's side have not enjoyed a new managerial bounce, with only two victories and now winless in their last six league games.

This leaves them in 18th place, three points adrift, with the gap could grow as rivals have games in hand.

Aside from 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, providing a glimmer of hope for this season.

Upcoming Fixtures

Manchester City: The side have a break before playing again with a trip to Nottingham Forest.

Nuno's team: The Hammers host Fulham in London on the same day.