🔗 Share this article

Villarreal became the most recent team to succumb to the Norwegian striker, who netted in his 9th straight City match. Pep Guardiola's men secured a largely comfortable 2-0 victory in the Cerámica, with the Portuguese midfielder contributing a second in a opening 45 minutes of clear superiority. Although the hosts had moments in the second half, they posed little sustained danger. After the forward was withdrawn late on, a collective sigh spread through the stadium—his impact had already been inflicted.

Dominant Start from Manchester City

The English side began brightly, with Haaland, Savinho, and Jérémy Doku combining to force Luíz Júnior into an first-minute stop. Just later, the striker headed a chance just wide. Pep Guardiola used a fluid setup, at times resembling a 3-2-4-1, with the defender moving into defense when needed. City enjoyed sixty-nine percent of the ball in the opening period, though their control felt more pronounced.

Villarreal Struggle to Keep Up

Marcelino's squad appeared struggling to read their opponents' movements. They opted for a defensive line and fast breaks, but City exceeded them in physicality and skill. The only glimpses of danger from the hosts were quickly snuffed out, with the defender stopping Georges Mikautadze and Gueye shooting wide.

Patience was key for City, especially in the build-up to the first strike.

Opening Goal Highlights Their Patience

That opening goal on 17 minutes epitomized the team's calmness. The Brazilian and John Stones exchanged passes multiple times on the right, pulling the defense wide. Suddenly, the tempo changed—patient passing turned into a quick exchange, Lewis surging into the box and pulling back for the forward to tap in.

Another Goal Confirms the Win

City's next strike was even simple. Again, Savinho sent in a cross from the right, and Bernardo Silva drifted free to nod in from close range.

Second Half Sees Momentary Resistance

Although Villarreal displayed a bit of fight in the second half—with Pépé and teammates testing Gianluigi Donnarumma—the visitors mostly kept control. Haaland came close twice, once with a powerful effort and later with a placed strike, but the keeper denied him both times.

• Haaland has now scored in nine straight games.
• City controlled possession with sixty-nine percent in the opening half.
• Villarreal managed only a few of shots on goal.

Ultimately, it was a professional display from City, who continue their impressive run in Europe.