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Villarreal became the most recent team to fall to the Norwegian striker, who scored in his 9th consecutive City fixture. Pep Guardiola's men secured a relatively easy 2-0 win in the Cerámica, with the Portuguese midfielder contributing a second goal in a first half of clear dominance. While the home team had moments in the second period, they created little consistent danger. After Haaland was substituted late on, a collective sigh spread through the ground—his damage had already been inflicted.

Dominant Start from Manchester City

The English side began brightly, with the number nine, the winger, and Doku combining to force the Villarreal keeper into an first-minute save. Only later, the striker directed a chance just wide. Pep Guardiola used a fluid setup, at times looking like a 3-2-4-1, with the defender dropping back to the back line when needed. City enjoyed sixty-nine percent of the ball in the opening period, although their control felt more pronounced.

Villarreal Find It Tough to Cope

The Villarreal team appeared unable to read their opponents' movements. They opted for a defensive line and fast counterattacks, but City matched them in athleticism and skill. Any glimpses of danger from the Yellow Submarine were quickly dealt with, with Rúben Dias denying Mikautadze and Pape Gueye shooting wide.

Patience proved key for Manchester City, especially in the lead-up to the opening goal.

First Strike Highlights City's Patience

The opening goal on seventeen minutes showcased City's composure. Savinho and John Stones exchanged passes repeatedly on the right flank, drawing the defense wide. Suddenly, the tempo changed—slow passing turned into a quick sequence, Lewis bursting into the area and squaring for the forward to finish.

Another Goal Confirms the Win

City's next goal was even straightforward. Again, the winger delivered a ball from the wing, and Bernardo Silva drifted unmarked to head home from point-blank.

Second Half Sees Momentary Fightback

Although the hosts showed a bit of fight in the second period—with Nicolas Pépé and teammates testing Gianluigi Donnarumma—the visitors mostly maintained control. Haaland went close twice, first with a strong effort and later with a guided strike, but the keeper denied him each time.

• The Norwegian has now scored in 9 straight games.
• Manchester City controlled possession with 69% in the first half.
• The Spanish team managed only a few of attempts on goal.

In the end, it was a efficient performance from Manchester City, as they continue their impressive form in Europe.