Man City hit the ground running as Haaland scores first hat-trick in 4-1 victory

Erling Haaland scored a hat-trick as Manchester City defeated Ipswich 4-1 at the Etihad Stadium, demonstrating the challenges of life in the Premier League.

The Tractor Boys are back in the top flight for the first time in 22 years, and they had a dream start against the defending champions when Sammie Szmodics scored on his full debut, squeezing a shot through the legs of Ederson after seven minutes.

However, the joy was short-lived as Manchester City hit back with three goals in four minutes.

First, Haaland equalised with a well-taken penalty, awarded following a review by the video assistant referee after Sam Allison had initially ruled that Savinho had dived.

Kevin De Bruyne then capitalised on hesitation by Ipswich goalkeeper Arijanet Muric to score before Haaland made it 3-1 after just 16 minutes, rounding Muric to fire in.

Manchester City could have been even further ahead as they hit the woodwork twice, although Ipswich had a strong shout for a penalty denied when Leif Davis appeared to be brought down by Brazil winger Savinho inside the box.

The second half saw arguably the biggest cheer of the game as Ilkay Gundogan – who completed his move from Barcelona back to City on a one-year deal on Friday – came on to mark his return to the club.

Just as Ipswich looked to have limited Manchester City to three goals, Haaland struck with a low drive from distance late on to complete his hat-trick.