EPL: Haaland double fires Man City past Everton at Etihad

Erling Haaland scored two goals in the second half, leading Manchester City to a 2-0 victory over Everton during matchday 8 of the Premier League at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

The Norwegian striker, who netted a hat-trick for his country during the recent international break, continued his blistering form with a clinical brace that took his tally to 23 goals in just 13 games for club and country this season.

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After being kept quiet in a cagey first half, Haaland made his mark shortly after the restart, rising highest to powerfully head home Nico O’Reilly’s cross.

Just five minutes later, he struck again, sweeping in from Savinho’s cutback, which deflected off defender James Tarkowski on its way into the net.

Up to that point, it had been David Moyes’ Everton who looked the more threatening side. Iliman Ndiaye caused several problems for City’s defence, first intercepting a misplaced Nathan Aké pass but failing to find Beto with a low cross, before forcing a fine save from Gianluigi Donnarumma with a thunderous long-range effort.

City also rode their luck when Everton defender Jake O’Brien nearly turned the ball into his own net, his header ricocheting off the crossbar.

Despite creating only half-chances in the opening half, including efforts from Savinho that were denied by Jordan Pickford, Pep Guardiola’s men found their rhythm after the break, with Haaland once again proving the difference.

The win keeps City’s strong domestic form intact as they continue their pursuit of another Premier League title.