Manchester City Run Riot as Haaland Nets Hat-TrickManchester City Run Riot as Haaland Nets Hat-Trick Manchester City delivered a ruthless attacking masterclass as they demolished Leeds United 7-0 at the Etihad Stadium, with Erling Haaland once again stealing the limelight with a blistering hat-trick. The Norwegian sensation opened the scoring in clinical fashion just after 10 minutes, latching onto a through ball from Kevin De Bruyne and firing past Illan Meslier. City doubled their advantage soon after, with Rodri heading home from a corner. Haaland struck again on the half-hour mark, tapping in from close range after a inch-perfect cross from Riyad Mahrez. The hat-trick was complete just before half-time, as Haaland converted De Bruyne’s low cross from the penalty spot. In the second half, Phil Foden added to the rout with two goals of his own, while Jack Grealish rounded off the scoring with a stunning solo effort. Haaland’s performance was a continuation of his extraordinary form since joining City from Borussia Dortmund in the summer. In just eight Premier League games, he has scored 11 goals, putting him top of the goalscoring charts. City’s victory was a statement of intent from a side that looks unstoppable in attack. De Bruyne and Mahrez provided a constant threat from midfield, while Haaland’s clinical finishing proved too much for a depleted Leeds defense. The result leaves City top of the Premier League table, two points ahead of Arsenal. Leeds, on the other hand, remain in 14th place, just one point above the relegation zone. Pep Guardiola, City’s manager, was delighted with his team’s performance. “We played incredibly well from the first minute to the last,” he said. “We controlled the game and created chances at will.” Haaland’s hat-trick was also met with praise from his manager. “He’s a special player,” Guardiola said. “He’s a born goalscorer and he’s going to score many more goals for us.” City’s next match is a trip to Liverpool next Sunday, while Leeds will host Fulham on Wednesday.
