Erling Haaland scored twice as Manchester City claimed back-to-back Premier League wins for the first time since October as they brushed aside West Ham 4-1 at the Etihad Stadium.
Haaland scored either side of half-time, heading home first from a Savinho throw to put City two up, with the Brazilian playing a key role in the home side's opener when his cross was inadvertently turned in by Vladimir Coufal.
Savinho also set up Haaland's second goal to make it 3-0, with the Norwegian subtly lifting the ball over the onrushing Alphonse Areola.
Phil Foden then ruthlessly punished a mistake at the Hammers' back, slotting the ball home after being picked out by Kevin De Bruyne on his 400th appearance for City in all competitions.
The visitors grabbed a consolation when Niclas Fullkrug whipped in Tomas Soucek's cross in the 71st minute, but the damage had already been done.
Pep Guardiola's side remain sixth, two points behind the top four, while West Ham remain in 13th after conceding nine goals in their last two Premier League games.
Data Debrief: City back at its best?
After a torrid end to 2024, the Citizens started the new year looking much more like the side that claimed a record fourth consecutive Premier League title last season.
Although West Ham posted more shots (17) than their opponents, City's quality in the final third was evident, with an expected goals total (xG) of 2.03 from their 10 attempts.
And their performance was inspired by Haaland and Savinho. The Norwegian has now scored nine goals against West Ham for City in the Premier League. Only against RB Leipzig (12) has he scored more goals against one team in his top club career in all competitions.
Four of Savinho's five assists in the Premier League this season have been to Haaland, the most for any player in the competition this season. The Brazilian also ended the encounter having created more chances (three) than anyone else on the pitch.
Comments