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The Spanish side became the most recent team to fall to the Norwegian striker, who scored in his ninth consecutive City match. Pep Guardiola's men claimed a relatively easy 2-0 win in the Cerámica, with the Portuguese midfielder contributing a second goal in a first half of clear superiority. While the home team had chances in the second period, they created little consistent danger. After the forward was substituted late on, a collective sigh spread through the stadium—his impact had already been inflicted.

Commanding Opening from Manchester City

The English side began sharply, with the number nine, the winger, and Doku combining to force Luíz Júnior into an early save. Just later, the striker directed a chance just wide. Pep Guardiola employed a flexible setup, sometimes looking like a three-man defense, with John Stones dropping back to defense when needed. City commanded sixty-nine percent of the ball in the opening period, though their control appeared even greater.

Villarreal Find It Tough to Keep Up

Marcelino's team seemed unable to decipher City's patterns. They relied on a deep block and quick counterattacks, but City exceeded them in athleticism and skill. The only hints of danger from the hosts were swiftly snuffed out, with the defender stopping Mikautadze and Gueye firing off target.

Patience was crucial for Manchester City, particularly in the lead-up to the opening strike.

First Goal Demonstrates Their Patience

That first goal on 17 minutes epitomized the team's calmness. Savinho and John Stones exchanged passes multiple times on the right flank, pulling the defense wide. Suddenly, the tempo shifted—patient movement turned into a rapid sequence, Lewis surging into the area and squaring for Haaland to finish.

Second Header Seals the Win

City's next goal was even straightforward. Once more, the winger delivered a cross from the wing, and Bernardo Silva drifted unmarked to head home from close range.

After the Break Sees Brief Resistance

Although the hosts showed a bit of life in the second half—with Nicolas Pépé and teammates challenging Gianluigi Donnarumma—the visitors largely kept control. The striker went close twice, first with a powerful effort and later with a guided strike, but the keeper denied him each time.

• The Norwegian has now scored in nine straight games.
• Manchester City dominated the ball with 69% in the first 45 minutes.
• The Spanish team recorded only a few of shots on goal.

Ultimately, it was a efficient performance from Manchester City, as they carry on their impressive form in Europe.