Manchester City delivered a scintillating performance at the Etihad Stadium, demolishing Wolverhampton Wanderers 5-1 in a Premier League clash that will be remembered for Erling Haaland's ruthless finishing.
Haaland's Four-Goal Spectacle
The Norwegian striker was in unstoppable form, netting four times to take his league tally to an astonishing 25 goals this season. His clinical display included two penalties and a thunderous strike from outside the box, showcasing his complete attacking repertoire.
Early Dominance Pays Off
City took control from the opening whistle, with Haaland opening the scoring in the 12th minute from the spot after Rayan Aït-Nouri's foul on Josko Gvardiol. The champions doubled their lead just seven minutes later when Haaland powered home a header from Rodri's pinpoint cross.
Wolves Brief Respite
Wolves pulled one back against the run of play through Hwang Hee-chan, but any hopes of a comeback were swiftly extinguished by Haaland's second penalty before half-time after Nelson Semedo brought down the marauding striker.
Second Half Exhibition
The second period saw City shift through the gears, with Haaland completing his hat-trick with a spectacular long-range effort before adding a fourth from close range. Julian Alvarez came off the bench to round off the scoring with a composed finish in the dying minutes.
Title Race Implications
This emphatic victory keeps the pressure on league leaders Arsenal, with City now just one point behind having played a game fewer. Pep Guardiola's side appear to be hitting their formidable best at the business end of the season.
For Wolves, the defeat leaves them mid-table, with manager Gary O'Neil facing defensive questions after his side were torn apart by City's attacking juggernaut.
