Manchester City returned to the top of the Premier League table, at least temporarily, after a 2-0 victory over Everton at the Etihad Stadium, courtesy of another decisive Erling Haaland brace.
It was not City’s most fluid display, but Haaland once again made the difference in a tight contest that required patience and precision rather than spectacle.
His two goals in five second-half minutes ensured Pep Guardiola’s side extended their unbeaten run and stayed in the mix among the early title challengers.
Everton, organised and combative throughout, frustrated City for nearly an hour. Jordan Pickford, fresh from signing a new contract, produced several strong saves to keep the hosts at bay. But as often happens, once City found a way through, there was no way back for the visitors.
The breakthrough arrived on 58 minutes. Phil Foden slipped a clever ball to Nico O’Reilly, whose delivery from the right found Haaland rising highest to power home a trademark header beyond Pickford.
It was the Norwegian’s 23rd goal of the season across club and country — and his 11th straight match on the scoresheet.
Just five minutes later, he struck again. Savinho’s quick footwork down the flank opened space for a low cross, which Haaland met first time with his left foot.
The shot was not his cleanest, but a deflection and Pickford’s unsighted position helped it roll into the corner to double City’s advantage.
Earlier, the game had been more evenly balanced. Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye and Beto both threatened on the counter, with the latter missing a golden chance from six yards.
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At the other end, O’Reilly fired narrowly wide before Jake O’Brien’s deflection from a Foden corner clipped the crossbar.
City’s control improved after half-time, even if they lacked the rhythm seen in their best performances.
With Rodri sidelined, Guardiola’s men occasionally looked disjointed. Yet their quality in decisive moments — and Haaland’s finishing — proved enough.
Pickford denied Haaland a hat-trick in stoppage time, making two excellent late saves, but by then the result was secure.
City’s 2-0 win sent them briefly above Arsenal ahead of the Gunners’ evening clash with Fulham.
While Guardiola’s side are yet to hit full stride this season, Haaland’s relentless form continues to carry them through — a reminder that even a functional City remains a formidable force.