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The Spanish side became the latest team to fall to the Norwegian striker, who netted in his 9th straight Manchester City match. Pep Guardiola's men claimed a relatively easy 2-0 victory in the Cerámica, with Bernardo Silva contributing a second in a opening 45 minutes of evident superiority. Although the hosts had moments in the second half, they created little consistent threat. When the forward was withdrawn late on, relief swept through the ground—his impact had already been done.

Dominant Opening from Manchester City

City began brightly, with the number nine, Savinho, and Jérémy Doku linking up to test Luíz Júnior into an early stop. Just later, Haaland directed a chance just wide. Pep Guardiola used a flexible setup, at times resembling a 3-2-4-1, with John Stones dropping into defense when needed. The visitors commanded sixty-nine percent of the ball in the first half, although their dominance appeared more pronounced.

Villarreal Struggle to Cope

Marcelino's team appeared unable to read their opponents' patterns. Villarreal relied on a defensive block and fast counterattacks, but City matched them in athleticism and skill. The only glimpses of threat from the hosts were quickly dealt with, with the defender denying Georges Mikautadze and Gueye shooting wide.

Patience was crucial for Manchester City, especially in the lead-up to the first goal.

First Strike Demonstrates Their Control

That opening goal on 17 minutes showcased City's calmness. The Brazilian and John Stones exchanged passes multiple times on the right flank, drawing Villarreal wide. Suddenly, the tempo shifted—patient passing turned into a quick exchange, Rico Lewis surging into the box and pulling back for the forward to finish.

Another Header Confirms the Win

The second strike was more simple. Once more, Savinho sent in a cross from the right, and Silva arrived free to head home from point-blank.

Second Half Brings Brief Resistance

While the hosts showed a bit of life in the second half—with Pépé and others challenging the City keeper—the visitors mostly kept command. Haaland came close twice, once with a powerful shot and later with a guided strike, but Luíz Júnior saved him both times.

• Haaland has now scored in 9 straight matches.
• City controlled possession with 69% in the opening half.
• Villarreal recorded only a handful of shots on target.

In the end, it was a efficient display from Manchester City, who carry on their impressive form in the Champions League.