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The Spanish side became the most recent team to fall to the Norwegian striker, who scored in his 9th straight Manchester City fixture. Pep Guardiola's men secured a relatively easy 2-0 win in the Cerámica, with the Portuguese midfielder adding a second goal in a opening 45 minutes of evident dominance. While the home team had chances in the second period, they created minimal sustained threat. After Haaland was substituted late on, a collective sigh swept through the stadium—the impact had already been inflicted.

Dominant Start from City

City began brightly, with Haaland, Savinho, and Doku linking up to force the Villarreal keeper into an early stop. Just moments, the striker headed a chance past the post. The City manager used a fluid formation, at times looking like a 3-2-4-1, with the defender dropping back to defense when required. City commanded 69% of the ball in the first half, although their dominance appeared more pronounced.

Villarreal Find It Tough to Cope

Marcelino's squad appeared unable to read City's movements. Villarreal opted for a deep block and quick counterattacks, but the away side matched them in athleticism and technique. Any hints of threat from the Yellow Submarine were quickly snuffed out, with Rúben Dias stopping Mikautadze and Pape Gueye firing off target.

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

First Goal Demonstrates City's Control

The first goal on 17 minutes showcased City's composure. Savinho and Stones swapped passes multiple times on the right, drawing the defense out. Then, the tempo shifted—patient movement turned into a rapid sequence, Rico Lewis surging into the box and pulling back for the forward to finish.

Second Header Confirms the Victory

City's next goal was more simple. Once more, Savinho delivered a cross from the right, and Bernardo Silva arrived unmarked to nod home from point-blank.

Second Half Brings Momentary Resistance

Although Villarreal displayed some fight in the second period—with Nicolas Pépé and teammates testing Gianluigi Donnarumma—the visitors largely maintained control. The striker went close on two occasions, first with a strong shot and then with a guided strike, but the keeper denied him each time.

• The Norwegian has now scored in 9 consecutive matches.
• Manchester City dominated possession with 69% in the opening 45 minutes.
• Villarreal recorded only a handful of shots on goal.

In the end, it was a efficient performance from City, as they continue their impressive run in the Champions League.