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Villarreal became the latest team to succumb to the Norwegian striker, who scored in his ninth consecutive City fixture. Pep Guardiola's men secured a largely comfortable 2-0 win in Spain, with the Portuguese midfielder adding a second in a first half of evident superiority. While the home team had chances in the second half, they created minimal sustained threat. After Haaland was substituted late on, a collective sigh spread through the stadium—his impact had long been inflicted.

Dominant Start from City

City began sharply, with Haaland, the winger, and Jérémy Doku linking up to force Luíz Júnior into an early save. Only moments, the striker headed a chance just wide. The City manager used a fluid formation, at times looking like a three-man defense, with John Stones dropping back to defense when needed. City commanded 69% of possession in the opening period, although their control appeared even greater.

Villarreal Find It Tough to Keep Up

The Villarreal squad seemed unable to decipher City's movements. They relied on a defensive line and quick breaks, but City matched them in physicality and technique. Any hints of threat from the Yellow Submarine were swiftly dealt with, with the defender denying Georges Mikautadze and Pape Gueye firing off target.

Composure proved crucial for Manchester City, particularly in the lead-up to the opening goal.

First Goal Highlights City's Control

That first goal on 17 minutes epitomized the team's calmness. The Brazilian and Stones swapped the ball multiple times on the right, drawing the defense wide. Suddenly, the pace shifted—patient passing turned into a rapid exchange, Lewis bursting into the box and squaring for the forward to tap in.

Second Header Seals the Victory

City's next strike was even simple. Once more, Savinho delivered a ball from the right, and Bernardo Silva arrived unmarked to nod in from close range.

Second Half Sees Brief Resistance

While the hosts showed some fight in the second half—with Pépé and teammates challenging the City keeper—City largely kept command. Haaland went close twice, once with a powerful shot and later with a guided strike, but the keeper denied him both times.

• Haaland has now scored in 9 consecutive matches.
• City dominated possession with 69% in the opening 45 minutes.
• The Spanish team managed only a few of shots on target.

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