Haaland and Cherki Score Braces as Manchester City Thrash Crystal Palace 4-1

Manchester City continued their strong start to the 2026/27 Premier League season, defeating Crystal Palace 4-1 at Selhurst Park. Erling Haaland and new signing Rayan Cherki were the standout performers, with both players netting two goals apiece to secure all three points for the visitors.

The match saw Manchester City take an early lead in the 17th minute when Haaland connected with a cross, heading the ball into the top-left corner past goalkeeper Dean Henderson. Despite several attempts from Crystal Palace, including headed chances from Jorgen Strand Larsen and Tyrick Mitchell, City maintained their advantage into halftime.

City extended their lead shortly after the break in the 54th minute. Cherki showcased his skill with an individual run before firing a shot from inside the box into the bottom-left corner, making it 2-0. Crystal Palace managed to pull a goal back just two minutes later through an unfortunate own goal by Manchester City's goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma, after a free kick struck the crossbar.

However, City quickly reasserted their dominance. Cherki scored his second goal in the 59th minute with a powerful strike, restoring their two-goal cushion. Haaland completed his brace in the 84th minute, latching onto a low cross and firing into the top-left corner, sealing a comprehensive 4-1 victory for Manchester City and capping an impressive individual performance.

This result leaves Manchester City with a perfect six points from their opening two matches, temporarily moving them to the summit of the Premier League standings. Crystal Palace, conversely, remains without a point after suffering their second consecutive defeat, placing them at the bottom of the table.