Haaland’s brace fires Man City past Bournemouth at Etihad

Erling Haaland was at his ruthless best again as Manchester City swept aside Bournemouth 3–1 on Sunday to tighten their grip near the top of the Premier League table.

The Norwegian striker struck twice in the first half before 18-year-old Nico O’Reilly sealed the victory with a classy finish in the second, ensuring Pep Guardiola’s men leapfrogged Bournemouth into second place.

City started with intent and were soon rewarded when Haaland bulldozed his way through the Cherries’ backline to fire a low strike past Djordje Petrovic. The visitors responded quickly through Tyler Adams, who lashed home a fine volley to level the score.

But parity lasted only a few minutes. Haaland restored City’s advantage with a clinical finish after linking up brilliantly with Phil Foden and Bernardo Silva. His all-round play, holding off defenders, drawing fouls, and creating space for teammates, left Bournemouth’s back four in disarray.

The second half saw City dominate possession as Guardiola’s side toyed with their opponents. Left-back Nico O’Reilly put the game beyond reach on the hour mark, driving in from the edge of the area after a flowing move that started with Foden and Cherki.

Guardiola, visibly delighted, blew kisses to Foden from the touchline as the home fans roared their approval.

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola threw on Justin Kluivert, Evanilson, and Ryan Christie in a desperate bid to change the tide, but their efforts failed to trouble City’s defence. Kluivert was later booked for a clumsy challenge on Gianluigi Donnarumma, while substitute Savinho’s pace repeatedly stretched the visitors on the break.

Haaland was eventually withdrawn to a standing ovation in the 82nd minute, narrowly missing out on a hat-trick.