Haaland, Cherki score braces as Man City thrash Crystal Palace 4-1

Manchester City continued their strong start to the Premier League season, defeating Crystal Palace 4-1 on Friday night. The victory, their second in a row, was powered by a brace from both Erling Haaland and Rayan Cherki, showcasing City's formidable attacking prowess.

Haaland opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a looping header from Antoine Semenyo's cross. Despite chances for both sides, including a missed opportunity by Eddie Nketiah for Palace, City extended their lead in the 54th minute through Cherki, who skillfully navigated through the defense.

Crystal Palace found a way back into the game shortly after Cherki's goal, when Yeremy Pino's free kick deflected off the crossbar, the back of City keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, and the post before crossing the line. However, any hopes of a comeback were quickly dashed.

Cherki struck again in the 59th minute, his deflected shot finding the net, before Haaland completed the rout in the 85th minute with a signature left-footed strike. The dominant performance ensures Manchester City secures maximum points from their first two league fixtures under manager Enzo Maresca.