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Villarreal became the latest team to fall to the Norwegian striker, who netted in his 9th consecutive City fixture. The visitors secured a largely comfortable 2-0 win in the Cerámica, with Bernardo Silva adding a second in a first half of evident dominance. While the home team had chances in the second period, they posed minimal consistent threat. When the forward was substituted late on, relief spread through the stadium—the damage had long been done.

Commanding Opening from City

City started sharply, with Haaland, the winger, and Doku combining to test Luíz Júnior into an early stop. Only moments, the striker headed a opportunity past the post. Pep Guardiola used a flexible setup, at times looking like a three-man defense, with John Stones moving into the back line when needed. City enjoyed 69% of the ball in the opening period, although their control felt even greater.

The Home Side Find It Tough to Keep Up

Marcelino's squad seemed unable to decipher City's movements. They relied on a defensive block and fast counterattacks, but City exceeded them in physicality and skill. Any glimpses of danger from the Yellow Submarine were swiftly dealt with, with Rúben Dias stopping Mikautadze and Pape Gueye shooting off target.

Patience was key for City, particularly in the lead-up to the first goal.

Opening Strike Highlights Their Control

That opening goal on seventeen minutes showcased the team's composure. Savinho and Stones exchanged the ball multiple times on the right, drawing the defense wide. Then, the pace shifted—slow movement turned into a rapid exchange, Lewis bursting into the box and squaring for Haaland to finish.

Another Goal Seals the Win

The second goal was even simple. Again, the winger delivered a cross from the right, and Bernardo Silva arrived free to head home from point-blank.

After the Break Sees Brief Fightback

While the hosts displayed a bit of life in the second period—with Pépé and teammates testing the City keeper—the visitors mostly maintained command. The striker came close twice, first with a powerful shot and then with a guided strike, but Luíz Júnior denied him each time.

• Haaland has now scored in nine consecutive games.
• City controlled possession with 69% in the opening half.
• The Spanish team managed only a handful of attempts on target.

In the end, it was a professional performance from Manchester City, who carry on their strong form in the Champions League.