Erling Haaland continued his impressive goal-scoring streak as Manchester City overcame West Ham 3-1 on Saturday.
The triumph increased their lead at the top of the Premier League.
Haaland’s hat-trick was his 24th of his career, and it helped City retain their perfect start to the season.
City took advantage of Arsenal’s earlier 1-1 draw with Brighton, influenced by Declan Rice’s questionable red card, to pull ahead at the top of the table.
Haaland’s first-half brace and a late third goal ensured the win for the reigning champions.
West Ham, positioned 13th in the league, initially threatened City’s dominance.
After a missed opportunity from Haaland early on, the Norwegian forward quickly redeemed himself, scoring the opening goal in the 10th minute following a mistake by Lucas Paquetá.
City nearly doubled their lead when Kevin De Bruyne struck the post, but West Ham equalized through Jarrod Bowen’s cross, which Ruben Dias turned into his net in the 19th minute.
However, City quickly regained control. Haaland scored his second goal in the 30th minute, assisted by Rico Lewis.
Despite West Ham’s efforts, including a shot from Mohammed Kudus that hit the woodwork, City’s defense held firm.
Haaland completed his hat-trick in the 83rd minute after a precise pass from Matheus Nunes.
This marked his 11th hat-trick for City and 24th in his entire career.
