EPL: Haaland marks 24th career hat-trick in City’s 3-1 win against West Ham

Erling Haaland continued his remarkable goal-scoring form as Manchester City defeated West Ham 3-1 on Saturday.

The win extended their lead at the top of the Premier League.

Haaland’s hat-trick marked his 24th career hat-trick and helped City maintain their perfect start to the season.

City capitalized on Arsenal’s earlier 1-1 draw against Brighton, a result influenced by Declan Rice’s controversial red card, to move clear 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 own net in the 19th minute.

However, City quickly regained control, with Haaland scoring 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.