Erling Haaland continued his remarkable form with a second consecutive hat-trick, leading Manchester City to a 3-1 victory over West Ham on Saturday and taking his tally to 70 goals in 69 Premier League matches. Following a dominant performance against Ipswich the previous weekend, Haaland's latest exploits have solidified City's position at the top of the Premier League.
The English champions have begun their title defense with impressive momentum, winning all three of their opening fixtures before the upcoming international break. Haaland’s electric start has been crucial to their success, with City looking formidable as they aim to secure their fifth consecutive league title under Pep Guardiola.
Guardiola praised Haaland’s contributions, emphasizing the need to continually provide him with opportunities in the box. The City manager also had the luxury of resting key players like Rodri, John Stones, and Kyle Walker, who had just returned from Euro 2024, while Phil Foden missed his second consecutive game due to illness.
Unlike many of his teammates involved in international tournaments, Haaland benefited from a summer break from international duty, which he credits for his rejuvenated and brilliant performances."I feel good and energized. I had a long holiday and pre-season," Haaland said.
Haaland's impressive start to the season included scoring in the opener against Chelsea and his 10th hat-trick for City against Ipswich. He has now set a Premier League record with seven goals in the first three games of the season.
Against West Ham, Haaland capitalized on a mistake by the hosts, as they lost possession in their half, allowing Bernardo Silva to assist Haaland for the opener. Despite an initial challenge from West Ham, who equalized with an own goal by Ruben Dias, City regained the lead with Haaland scoring from a Rico Lewis pass.
City could have extended their lead but were denied by West Ham's Alphonse Areola and a post. Haaland sealed the win with a late goal, confidently finishing a chance created by Matheus Nunes. Despite a late save by Lukasz Fabianski denying Haaland a fourth goal, City secured all three points.
West Ham F.C., struggling with a second defeat in three matches, now find themselves in 14th place under Julen Lopetegui.
