Haaland scores brace against Everton to send City top of the table

Manchester City returned to the top of the Premier League table courtesy of a 2-0 victory over Everton at the Etihad Stadium today.

It was not City’s most fluid display, but Erling Braut 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 frustrated City for nearly an hour. Jordan Pickford produced several strong saves to keep the hosts at bay. However, City found a way through, and there was no way back for the visitors.

The breakthrough arrived after 58 minutes. Phil Foden slipped a clever ball to Nico O’Reilly, whose delivery found Haaland rising highest to power home a trademark header beyond Pickford.

It was the Norwegian’s 23rd goal of the season for club and country and his 11th straight match on the scoresheet.

He struck again five minutes later. 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.

The game was balanced up to that point. Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye and Beto both threatened on the counter-attack. The latter missed a golden chance from six yards.

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 their usual rhythm.

With Rodri sidelined, Guardiola’s 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 the result was secure by then.

City’s 2-0 win sent them briefly above Arsenal ahead of their evening clash with Fulham.