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The Spanish side became the most recent team to fall to the Norwegian striker, who scored in his 9th consecutive Manchester City match. Pep Guardiola's men secured a relatively easy 2-0 win in the Cerámica, with Bernardo Silva adding a second goal in a first half of clear superiority. Although the home team had chances in the second half, they posed little consistent threat. After Haaland was substituted late on, a collective sigh swept through the ground—his damage had already been done.

Dominant Start from City

City started brightly, with Haaland, Savinho, and Doku combining to force Luíz Júnior into an early stop. Just later, Haaland directed a chance past the post. The City manager used a flexible formation, at times resembling a three-man defense, with the defender dropping back to defense when needed. City enjoyed sixty-nine percent of possession in the opening period, although their control appeared even greater.

The Home Side Find It Tough to Keep Up

Marcelino's squad seemed unable to read City's patterns. They opted for a deep line and quick breaks, but City exceeded them in physicality and technique. The only glimpses of danger from the hosts were swiftly snuffed out, with Rúben Dias stopping Mikautadze and Gueye firing wide.

Patience proved key for Manchester City, particularly in the build-up to the opening strike.

Opening Strike Demonstrates City's Patience

The opening goal on 17 minutes epitomized the team's composure. The Brazilian and John Stones swapped passes multiple times on the right, drawing Villarreal out. Then, the tempo changed—patient movement turned into a rapid exchange, Lewis bursting into the box and pulling back for Haaland to tap in.

Another Goal Seals the Win

The next strike was even simple. Once more, the winger sent in a ball from the right, and Silva drifted unmarked to nod in from point-blank.

Second Half Brings Brief Fightback

While Villarreal displayed some fight in the second half—with Nicolas Pépé and others challenging Gianluigi Donnarumma—City largely maintained control. The striker came close on two occasions, first with a strong shot and later with a placed attempt, but Luíz Júnior saved him each time.

• The Norwegian has now scored in 9 consecutive games.
• City dominated the ball with sixty-nine percent in the first half.
• The Spanish team managed only a handful of attempts on target.

Ultimately, it was a efficient display from Manchester City, as they continue their impressive form in the Champions League.