Erling Haaland scored twice as Savinho delivered a standout performance to lead Manchester City to a commanding 4-1 victory over West Ham United at the Etihad Stadium. The win, City’s second in a row following their triumph over Leicester, keeps the pressure on the Premier League leaders and heaps further strain on West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui.
The match started with City under pressure, as West Ham created the better opportunities in the opening stages. Mohammed Kudus wasted a couple of promising chances, while City struggled to find their rhythm. However, Savinho’s creativity turned the tide, setting up City’s first three goals in a masterful display.
The breakthrough came when Savinho’s cross from the left wing deflected off Vladimir Coufal and past Alphonse Areola for an own goal. Moments later, the young Brazilian dazzled again, twisting past Coufal before delivering a teasing cross that Haaland headed home, doubling City’s lead before halftime.
Early in the second half, Savinho once again showcased his vision, threading a perfectly weighted pass behind the West Ham defense. Haaland latched onto it and lofted the ball over Areola, scoring his ninth goal against the Hammers, the most he’s managed against any Premier League opponent.
West Ham pulled one back through Niclas Fullkrug, but any hopes of a comeback were dashed shortly after. Sloppy play in midfield gifted City possession, and Kevin De Bruyne fed Phil Foden, who slotted home City’s fourth inside the hour mark.
Despite the scoreline, West Ham had their moments and will feel the result flattered City. However, the defeat compounds Lopetegui’s woes after his side’s 5-0 drubbing by Liverpool in their final game of 2024. City, meanwhile, continue to build momentum as Pep Guardiola’s side chase their title ambitions.
