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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 fixture. Pep Guardiola's men secured a relatively easy 2-0 victory in Spain, with Bernardo Silva contributing a second in a first half of clear superiority. While the hosts had chances in the second half, they created minimal sustained danger. When the forward was withdrawn late on, a collective sigh spread through the stadium—his damage had long been done.

Dominant Start from Manchester City

The English side began sharply, with the number nine, Savinho, and Jérémy Doku linking up to force the Villarreal keeper into an first-minute stop. Just later, Haaland headed a chance just wide. Pep Guardiola employed a flexible formation, at times resembling a 3-2-4-1, with the defender dropping into the back line when needed. The visitors enjoyed sixty-nine percent of possession in the opening period, although their dominance appeared even greater.

The Home Side Find It Tough to Cope

The Villarreal team seemed unable to decipher City's patterns. They relied on a deep line and quick breaks, but City matched them in athleticism and skill. The only glimpses of threat from the hosts were swiftly snuffed out, with the defender stopping Mikautadze and Pape Gueye firing off target.

Composure proved key for City, especially in the build-up to the opening strike.

First Goal Highlights Their Control

That first goal on 17 minutes showcased the team's calmness. The Brazilian and Stones swapped the ball multiple times on the right flank, pulling Villarreal wide. Suddenly, the tempo changed—patient movement turned into a rapid sequence, Lewis bursting into the box and squaring for Haaland to tap in.

Second Header Confirms the Win

The second goal was more straightforward. Once more, Savinho delivered a cross from the wing, and Bernardo Silva arrived free to nod home from close range.

After the Break Sees Momentary Fightback

While Villarreal displayed a bit of fight in the second half—with Pépé and teammates challenging the City keeper—City mostly kept control. The striker came close twice, once with a powerful shot and later with a placed strike, but Luíz Júnior saved him each time.

• Haaland has now scored in nine straight matches.
• City dominated possession with 69% in the first half.
• The Spanish team recorded only a few of attempts on target.

Ultimately, it was a efficient performance from Manchester City, who continue their impressive run in the Champions League.