Manchester City Reign Supreme: Haaland Nets Hat-Trick in Derby RoutManchester City Reign Supreme: Haaland Nets Hat-Trick in Derby Rout Manchester City cemented their dominance in the Manchester derby with a resounding 6-3 victory over rivals Manchester United on Sunday. The match was marked by a mesmerizing performance from Erling Haaland, who scored a hat-trick and broke the deadlock for City. After a cagey start, City took the lead in the 34th minute. Phil Foden’s incisive pass found Haaland in the penalty area, and the Norwegian striker coolly finished past David de Gea. United responded with a quick equalizer through Anthony Martial, but City regained the lead just minutes later when Haaland netted his second of the match, nodding in a Foden cross. In the second half, Haaland put the game beyond United’s reach with a stunning individual effort. The 22-year-old picked up the ball in his own half and drove forward, evading three United defenders before unleashing an unstoppable shot into the top corner. United pulled one back through Marcus Rashford, but City’s dominance continued. Foden and Antony added goals for the hosts, before Alejandro Garnacho scored a consolation for United. Erik ten Hag’s side added another in stoppage time through Anthony Elanga, but it was too little too late. Haaland’s hat-trick extended his remarkable goalscoring run to 17 goals in 11 Premier League games for City. He now leads the scoring charts by an astonishing nine goals, showcasing his prowess as one of the world’s most lethal strikers. Pep Guardiola hailed Haaland’s performance as “incredible” and praised his team’s overall display. “We played really well, controlled the game, and created numerous chances,” he said. “Erling’s hat-trick was the icing on the cake.” The victory consolidates City’s position at the top of the Premier League table. They now sit four points clear of United and have a game in hand. United, meanwhile, remain sixth in the standings, despite their spirited fightback in the second half. The Manchester derby was a thrilling spectacle that further cemented Manchester City’s status as the dominant force in English football. With Haaland continuing to fire on all cylinders, City will be a formidable force in the months to come.
