Haaland scores hat-trick as Man City thrash Fulham 5-1

Erling Haaland’s exceptional performance led Manchester City to maintain their flawless start in the Premier League with a resounding 5-1 victory over Fulham on Saturday. Meanwhile, Son Heung-min also delivered a hat-trick, securing Tottenham’s 5-2 triumph against Burnley.

In contrast, Chelsea’s substantial investments in the transfer market have yet to bear fruit, as they suffered a 1-0 defeat at home against Nottingham Forest.

Manchester City, although not operating at peak performance, were still superior enough to claim all three points. Notably, manager Pep Guardiola was absent due to his ongoing recovery from back surgery in Catalonia.

The match’s first goal arrived in the 31st minute when Julian Alvarez found the net after converting Haaland’s cross. However, Fulham swiftly responded, with Tim Ream tapping in a corner to level the score.

City regained the lead through a contentious set-piece situation. Nathan Ake’s header was permitted to stand despite Manuel Akanji, positioned offside, leaping over the ball.

The real spectacle occurred in the second half when Haaland took center stage. He achieved the milestone of becoming the fastest player to reach 40 Premier League goals, accomplishing this feat in just 39 appearances. Haaland calmly slotted in a finish from Phil Foden’s well-placed through ball.

The Norwegian striker then put aside his missed penalty from the previous weekend against Sheffield United by confidently converting a spot-kick.

To cap off his outstanding performance, Haaland secured a hat-trick in stoppage time, bringing his tally to six goals in five games for the season.