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September 1, 2024

Energized Erling Haaland Scores Hat-Trick to Propel Manchester City to the Top – EPL

Erling Haaland continued his impressive form by scoring another hat-trick in Manchester City’s 3-1 victory over West Ham on Saturday, marking his second consecutive treble. 

Credit to English Premier League Image Gallery

This performance propelled him to 70 goals in 69 Premier League appearances since joining City from Borussia Dortmund. Having dominated Ipswich last weekend, the Norwegian striker’s prolific scoring has set a daunting tone for the rest of the league as City begins their title defense. With four consecutive championships under Pep Guardiola’s leadership, City has sent a clear message to any challengers hoping to dethrone them.

The English champions have set themselves apart by becoming the only team to win all three opening matches as they head into the upcoming international break. This impressive run can be primarily attributed to the explosive performances of their star player, Haaland, whose skill and goal-scoring ability have been instrumental in securing these crucial wins. His contributions have bolstered the team’s position in the league and showcased their potential as strong contenders for the season ahead.

“No words for him. All we can do is make him play better and better and give him as many balls as possible to the box,” said Guardiola. 

The City manager enjoyed the luxury of resting key players Rodri, John Stones, and Kyle Walker on the bench, a decision made possible by their extensive efforts in helping their national team reach the Euro 2024 final. This allowed the team to maintain a fresh lineup while acknowledging the hard work these players put in during the tournament. Meanwhile, Phil Foden was unfortunately sidelined for the second consecutive match due to illness, which has left a noticeable gap in the squad as they continue to navigate the season’s early stages.

Unlike many of his teammates who participated in the Euros and Copa America, Haaland enjoyed a summer free from international commitments, and he appears both rejuvenated and relentless in his performance.

“I feel good, I feel energised. I had a long vacation and pre-season,” said Haaland.

“Only footballers know how important it is to have a break.

“You need to calm your body and mind down because it’s a long season. It’s not as easy as people think. I feel fresh and that’s the most important thing.”

After finding the net in the opening weekend victory against Chelsea and recording his 10th hat-trick for City against Ipswich, Haaland has now set a Premier League record with seven goals in the season’s first three matches. 

West Ham can only hold themselves accountable for the first goal. They squandered possession deep in their own half, allowing Bernardo Silva to find Haaland, who calmly finished past Alphonse Areola.

City appeared poised to secure victory early on, with Areola denying Kevin De Bruyne before the Belgian’s powerful shot struck the crossbar. 

However, West Ham leveled with their first meaningful attack, aided by an unfortunate error from the visitors. 

Following an impressive sequence of play that transitioned from one end of the pitch to the other, Jarrod Bowen penetrated the City box, and Ruben Dias inadvertently redirected his low cross into the net.

City swiftly regained control of the match and reclaimed their lead through a brilliant team play culminating in a powerful finish. 

Rico Lewis delivered a precise pass to Haaland, who expertly chose his target and blasted the ball high into the net, beyond Areola’s reach. 

Haaland nearly recorded an assist before halftime, but Lewis sent his shot over the bar after receiving a clever lay-off from the striker.

City allowed their opponents a glimmer of hope in the second half by failing to secure a decisive third goal, which could have cost them dearly. 

A rapid counter-attack saw Bowen set up Mohammed Kudus, whose powerful shot struck the post. 

However, Haaland ultimately had the last word, ensuring the three points were safely in City’s hands.

The 24-year-old received a pass from Matheus Nunes and skillfully lifted the ball over substitute goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski. 

The seasoned Polish shot-stopper was forced to spring into action to thwart Haaland from scoring a fourth in stoppage time. 

West Ham’s second loss in three matches leaves Julen Lopetegui’s side languishing in 14th place.