🔗 Share this article

The Spanish side became the most recent team to succumb to Erling Haaland, who scored in his ninth consecutive Manchester City match. Pep Guardiola's men claimed a largely comfortable 2-0 win in the Cerámica, with the Portuguese midfielder contributing a second in a first half of clear dominance. Although the home team had chances in the second half, they posed little consistent danger. When Haaland was substituted late on, a collective sigh spread through the ground—his impact had long been done.

Dominant Opening from City

The English side started sharply, with Haaland, Savinho, and Doku combining to test Luíz Júnior into an first-minute stop. Just later, the striker headed a chance just wide. The City manager employed a flexible formation, at times resembling a 3-2-4-1, with the defender dropping back to the back line when needed. City commanded sixty-nine percent of the ball in the first half, though their control felt more pronounced.

The Home Side Find It Tough to Cope

Marcelino's team appeared unable to read City's movements. They opted for a deep block and quick counterattacks, but the away side matched them in physicality and skill. The only hints of danger from the Yellow Submarine were quickly snuffed out, with Rúben Dias stopping Georges Mikautadze and Pape Gueye firing wide.

Patience proved crucial for City, particularly in the lead-up to the first goal.

Opening Goal Highlights Their Control

The opening goal on seventeen minutes showcased the team's calmness. The Brazilian and John Stones exchanged passes repeatedly on the right, pulling Villarreal wide. Suddenly, the tempo changed—slow passing turned into a quick exchange, Lewis surging into the box and pulling back for the forward to finish.

Second Header Seals the Victory

The next goal was even straightforward. Again, Savinho sent in a ball from the right, and Silva drifted free to head home from point-blank.

After the Break Brings Brief Resistance

Although the hosts displayed a bit of fight in the second period—with Pépé and others testing Gianluigi Donnarumma—City largely maintained control. The striker went close twice, first with a powerful shot and later with a guided attempt, but the keeper saved him both times.

• The Norwegian has now found the net in nine consecutive games.
• City controlled the ball with 69% in the opening 45 minutes.
• Villarreal managed only a few of shots on goal.

Ultimately, it was a professional performance from City, as they carry on their strong form in Europe.