đź”— Share this article Haaland Unstoppable as Manchester City Defeat Villarreal Villarreal became the most recent team to succumb to Erling Haaland, who scored in his 9th straight Manchester City match. Pep Guardiola's men secured a relatively easy 2-0 win in the Cerámica, with the Portuguese midfielder adding a second in a first half of clear dominance. Although the home team had chances in the second period, they posed little consistent threat. When Haaland was withdrawn late on, relief spread through the stadium—his impact had already been inflicted. Dominant Opening from Manchester City The English side began brightly, with Haaland, Savinho, and Doku linking up to test the Villarreal keeper into an first-minute stop. Only moments, Haaland directed a opportunity just wide. The City manager used a fluid setup, sometimes resembling a 3-2-4-1, with John Stones dropping into the back line when required. City commanded 69% of possession in the opening period, although their dominance appeared even greater. Villarreal Struggle to Cope Marcelino's team appeared unable to decipher City's movements. Villarreal relied on a defensive line and quick breaks, but the away side exceeded them in physicality and skill. The only hints of danger from the Yellow Submarine were quickly snuffed out, with the defender stopping Mikautadze and Pape Gueye shooting wide. Patience proved crucial for Manchester City, particularly in the lead-up to the first goal. Opening Strike Highlights Their Control The opening goal on seventeen minutes showcased City's composure. Savinho and Stones exchanged passes repeatedly on the right, drawing the defense out. Then, the tempo shifted—slow passing turned into a quick sequence, Rico Lewis bursting into the box and pulling back for Haaland to finish. Another Goal Confirms the Win City's next goal was even simple. Once more, Savinho delivered a ball from the right, and Bernardo Silva arrived free to nod home from close range. Second Half Sees Brief Fightback Although the hosts displayed some life in the second half—with Nicolas PĂ©pĂ© and others challenging the City keeper—City mostly maintained command. Haaland went close on two occasions, first with a powerful shot and then with a placed strike, but LuĂz JĂşnior saved him both times. The Norwegian has now scored in 9 consecutive games. Manchester City dominated the ball with sixty-nine percent in the first 45 minutes. The Spanish team recorded only a handful of shots on target. Ultimately, it was a professional performance from City, who carry on their impressive form in the Champions League.