Prior to the much-anticipated clash between West Ham and Manchester City, a group of young West Ham fans were overheard discussing their team’s chances for the match. One boy, looking for a honest prediction, asked his friend, “What do you really think will happen?”

After a moment of contemplation, the young fan predicted a 3-1 defeat for the hosts, with Erling Haaland scoring two of the goals. As the match unfolded, his prediction was almost spot on.

When facing Manchester City, teams often find themselves facing a daunting challenge. The reigning English champions continue to dominate the Premier League, making a mockery of the notion of competitive balance in the league. For West Ham fans, facing City often requires a dose of realism before the game even begins.

It has been nine long years since West Ham last defeated Manchester City, a staggering 18-game winless streak that equals their longest drought against a single opponent in the top flight. It’s no surprise that a feeling of resignation loomed over the home team before a single ball was kicked.

Despite a brief moment of excitement in the second half, when Haaland completed his hat-trick, it was short-lived. The hosts struggled to make an impact, and even when they managed to score an own goal courtesy of Rúben Dias, it seemed like City could easily add to their tally if needed.

With Haaland in their ranks, Manchester City possess a player who seems like a cheat code on the football pitch. His personal tally of seven goals this season is more than any other team in the league. Impressively, he has now scored more Premier League goals (70) than he has made appearances (69). Haaland’s lethal finishing touch complements City’s already formidable squad, making them a force to be reckoned with in world football.