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Villarreal became the latest team to succumb to the Norwegian striker, who netted in his ninth consecutive City fixture. The visitors secured a relatively easy 2-0 victory in Spain, with the Portuguese midfielder adding a second goal in a opening 45 minutes of clear superiority. While the home team had chances in the second period, they posed minimal consistent threat. When the forward was withdrawn late on, relief spread through the stadium—the damage had already been done.

Commanding Start from City

City began sharply, with Haaland, Savinho, and Jérémy Doku linking up to test Luíz Júnior into an early stop. Only moments, Haaland headed a opportunity just wide. The City manager used a fluid setup, at times resembling a three-man defense, with John Stones moving back to the back line when required. The visitors enjoyed sixty-nine percent of possession in the opening period, although their control felt more pronounced.

The Home Side Find It Tough to Keep Up

Marcelino's team appeared struggling to decipher City's patterns. Villarreal relied on a deep block and fast counterattacks, but City exceeded them in athleticism and technique. The only hints of threat from the hosts were quickly dealt with, with Rúben Dias stopping Mikautadze and Gueye shooting wide.

Composure proved key for City, particularly in the lead-up to the first goal.

Opening Strike Demonstrates Their Patience

The first goal on seventeen minutes showcased City's composure. Savinho and John Stones swapped passes multiple times on the right flank, drawing the defense wide. Then, the tempo shifted—slow passing turned into a quick sequence, Rico Lewis bursting into the box and pulling back for the forward to tap in.

Another Goal Seals the Victory

City's next strike was even simple. Again, Savinho delivered a cross from the wing, and Silva drifted free to nod home from close range.

Second Half Brings Momentary Fightback

Although Villarreal displayed some fight in the second period—with Nicolas Pépé and others testing the City keeper—the visitors mostly maintained control. The striker went close twice, once with a powerful shot and later with a placed strike, but Luíz Júnior denied him both times.

• The Norwegian has now found the net in nine straight games.
• Manchester City dominated possession with 69% in the opening half.
• The Spanish team recorded only a few of shots on goal.

Ultimately, it was a efficient display from City, as they carry on their impressive run in the Champions League.