n an exhilarating match on the final day of the 2024 Premier League season, Manchester City secured their fourth consecutive league title with a 3-1 victory over West Ham United at the Etihad Stadium. The win not only sealed another domestic triumph for City but also demonstrated their dominance in English football, marking a historic achievement for manager Pep Guardiola and his squad. The match provided a fitting conclusion to a season where City’s depth, skill, and consistency were key factors in their success.
A Nervy Start for City
Despite already having the title within their grasp, Manchester City knew they had to secure all three points against a resilient West Ham side to confirm their supremacy in the Premier League. The first 20 minutes were nervy, with West Ham putting up a solid defensive performance and even creating a few dangerous counter-attacks. However, Manchester City’s attacking prowess soon came to the fore, and they gradually took control of the game.
West Ham, managed by David Moyes, had little to play for, sitting comfortably in mid-table, but they were determined to spoil the party for their more illustrious hosts. The Hammers were compact defensively, with the center-back pairing of Nayef Aguerd and Kurt Zouma doing well to contain City’s explosive attackers. However, West Ham’s resolve would eventually be broken by the sheer quality and depth of City’s attack.
City Breakthrough: Erling Haaland Strikes
The deadlock was broken in the 27th minute when Manchester City’s star striker, Erling Haaland, found the back of the net. It was a classic Haaland finish — a pinpoint cross from Kevin De Bruyne found the Norwegian striker inside the box, and with a composed first-time finish, Haaland slotted the ball past West Ham goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski. The goal was Haaland’s 34th of the season, reinforcing his status as one of the Premier League’s most prolific forwards.
The Etihad erupted as the home crowd celebrated not only the goal but the realization that the title was now firmly in their hands. Haaland’s relentless form throughout the season had been a key factor in City’s success, and once again, he delivered when it mattered most.
West Ham Response: Jarrod Bowen Equalizes
Despite the setback, West Ham refused to roll over. The Hammers showed great character and responded with an equalizer in the 45th minute, just before halftime. A well-timed ball over the top from Lucas Paquetá found Jarrod Bowen, who used his pace to break free from City’s defense. Bowen’s powerful shot on the half-volley beat City goalkeeper Ederson at his near post, pulling West Ham level at 1-1.
The goal stunned the Etihad and brought a moment of tension for City, as West Ham’s equalizer gave them hope of causing an upset. Bowen’s strike was a testament to West Ham’s quick counter-attacking style, and they went into the break with renewed confidence.
City’s Second Half Dominance
After the break, however, Manchester City’s class began to shine through. Guardiola made a couple of tactical adjustments, bringing on Jack Grealish and Bernardo Silva to inject more energy into the attack, and City regained control of the match. It didn’t take long for the champions to regain their lead.
In the 55th minute, a corner kick from De Bruyne found the head of City captain Ruben Dias, who rose above the West Ham defense to nod the ball past Fabianski. The goal was a testament to City’s set-piece quality, and Dias’ aerial presence proved too much for the Hammers. At 2-1, City were back in the driver’s seat and now only needed to manage the game to secure the victory and their fourth consecutive title.
The third goal came in the 72nd minute, effectively sealing the win. A slick passing move involving Haaland, De Bruyne, and Grealish culminated in a cross from the left that found Riyad Mahrez in space. Mahrez’s cool finish into the bottom corner put City 3-1 up, and the title was all but confirmed.
A Historic Achievement for Manchester City
With the final whistle blowing and the scoreline remaining 3-1, Manchester City had secured the three points they needed to lift the Premier League trophy for the fourth consecutive season. The achievement was a historic one for the club, as Guardiola’s side continued to assert their dominance over English football. The win capped off a brilliant campaign where City exhibited remarkable consistency, even with the challenges posed by their rivals, particularly Arsenal, who pushed them all the way.
For Guardiola, this victory marked another milestone in his illustrious managerial career, and the Spanish coach has cemented his legacy as one of the greatest to ever manage in the Premier League. Haaland’s incredible goal-scoring feats, along with the contributions of players like De Bruyne, Grealish, and Mahrez, were key to City’s success. The depth and tactical flexibility of the squad were on full display, as they overcame challenges throughout the season to emerge as champions.
West Ham’s Effort
While the result was disappointing for West Ham, they can take pride in their performance. Their resilience and ability to take the game to the champions showed the quality within their squad, and they can be pleased with their solid mid-table finish. Moyes will look to build on this season as he continues to strengthen his squad for the upcoming campaign.
Conclusion
In the end, Manchester City’s 3-1 victory over West Ham was the perfect way to seal yet another Premier League title. With a dominant performance led by their talismanic striker, Erling Haaland, and contributions from across the pitch, City proved once again why they are the top team in England. The win not only secured their fourth consecutive league title but also solidified their place as one of the greatest teams in Premier League history. As they prepare for the next chapter, City’s dominance under Guardiola shows no signs of waning.
