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Villarreal became the latest team to succumb to the Norwegian striker, who netted in his 9th consecutive City fixture. The visitors claimed a relatively easy 2-0 victory in Spain, with the Portuguese midfielder contributing a second goal in a opening 45 minutes of clear dominance. Although the home team had chances in the second half, they posed little sustained danger. After the forward was substituted late on, relief swept through the stadium—his impact had already been done.

Dominant Start from City

City began brightly, with Haaland, Savinho, and Jérémy Doku linking up to force the Villarreal keeper into an first-minute stop. Only later, the striker headed a chance just wide. Pep Guardiola employed a fluid setup, sometimes looking like a 3-2-4-1, with John Stones dropping back to defense when needed. City enjoyed 69% of possession in the opening period, although their control appeared even greater.

The Home Side Struggle to Keep Up

The Villarreal team appeared unable to read their opponents' patterns. They relied on a defensive block and quick counterattacks, but the away side exceeded them in athleticism and technique. The only hints of danger from the Yellow Submarine were quickly snuffed out, with Rúben Dias denying Georges Mikautadze and Pape Gueye firing off target.

Patience was key for City, especially in the build-up to the opening goal.

First Goal Highlights City's Patience

That opening goal on 17 minutes epitomized City's calmness. Savinho and John Stones exchanged the ball multiple times on the right, drawing Villarreal wide. Then, the pace shifted—slow passing turned into a quick sequence, Rico Lewis surging into the area and squaring for the forward to finish.

Another Header Seals the Victory

City's second strike was more straightforward. Once more, Savinho sent in a ball from the wing, and Silva drifted unmarked to head home from close range.

After the Break Brings Brief Fightback

Although the hosts displayed some fight in the second half—with Nicolas Pépé and others challenging Gianluigi Donnarumma—City largely kept control. Haaland came close twice, once with a strong shot and then with a placed strike, but Luíz Júnior saved him both times.

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

Ultimately, it was a efficient display from City, as they continue their impressive form in Europe.