đź”— Share this article Haaland Unstoppable as City Defeat Villarreal The Spanish side became the latest team to fall to the Norwegian striker, who scored in his 9th consecutive Manchester City fixture. The visitors claimed a relatively easy 2-0 victory in the Cerámica, with the Portuguese midfielder contributing a second in a opening 45 minutes of clear superiority. While the hosts had moments in the second period, they created little consistent threat. After Haaland was withdrawn late on, a collective sigh spread through the stadium—his damage had long been done. Commanding Opening from City The English side started sharply, with Haaland, the winger, and Doku combining to test the Villarreal keeper into an early save. Only later, the striker headed a opportunity just wide. Pep Guardiola used a fluid formation, at times resembling a three-man defense, with the defender moving back to defense when required. City enjoyed 69% of the ball in the opening period, although their dominance appeared more pronounced. The Home Side Find It Tough to Keep Up Marcelino's squad seemed unable to read City's patterns. Villarreal relied on a defensive block and quick counterattacks, but the away side matched them in physicality and technique. The only glimpses of danger from the hosts were swiftly dealt with, with RĂşben Dias stopping Georges Mikautadze and Gueye shooting wide. Composure proved crucial for Manchester City, especially in the lead-up to the opening strike. Opening Strike Highlights City's Patience The first goal on 17 minutes showcased the team's calmness. The Brazilian and Stones exchanged passes repeatedly on the right flank, pulling Villarreal out. Then, the tempo shifted—slow movement turned into a quick exchange, Rico Lewis surging into the box and pulling back for Haaland to tap in. Second Header Seals the Win The next goal was even straightforward. Again, the winger delivered a ball from the wing, and Silva arrived unmarked to head home from close range. Second Half Brings Momentary Resistance While the hosts showed a bit of fight in the second period—with PĂ©pĂ© and others testing Gianluigi Donnarumma—the visitors mostly kept control. The striker went close twice, once with a strong shot and later with a placed strike, but LuĂz JĂşnior denied him both times. Haaland has now scored in nine consecutive games. Manchester City dominated the ball with 69% in the first half. Villarreal managed only a handful of shots on goal. Ultimately, it was a efficient display from City, who carry on their strong run in Europe.