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The Spanish side became the most recent team to succumb to the Norwegian striker, who netted in his ninth consecutive Manchester City match. Pep Guardiola's men claimed a relatively easy 2-0 win in the Cerámica, with Bernardo Silva contributing a second goal in a opening 45 minutes of evident dominance. Although the hosts had moments in the second half, they posed minimal consistent threat. When Haaland was substituted late on, relief spread through the stadium—his impact had already been inflicted.

Commanding Start from City

City started brightly, with the number nine, the winger, and Jérémy Doku linking up to force Luíz Júnior into an first-minute stop. Just later, the striker directed a opportunity past the post. The City manager employed a flexible formation, sometimes looking like a three-man defense, with the defender moving into the back line when needed. The visitors enjoyed sixty-nine percent of possession in the opening period, though their dominance felt more pronounced.

The Home Side Struggle to Cope

Marcelino's team seemed unable to decipher City's patterns. They opted for a defensive block and quick breaks, but the away side exceeded them in physicality and technique. The only glimpses of danger from the hosts were swiftly snuffed out, with the defender denying Mikautadze and Gueye firing off target.

Composure was key for City, particularly in the build-up to the opening strike.

First Goal Demonstrates City's Control

That opening goal on seventeen minutes showcased City's calmness. The Brazilian and John Stones swapped the ball repeatedly on the right flank, pulling Villarreal out. Then, the pace shifted—slow movement turned into a quick exchange, Lewis bursting into the box and pulling back for the forward to finish.

Another Goal Confirms the Victory

The next strike was even simple. Once more, Savinho delivered a ball from the wing, and Silva drifted free to head home from point-blank.

Second Half Sees Brief Resistance

While the hosts displayed a bit of life in the second period—with Pépé and teammates challenging Gianluigi Donnarumma—City mostly kept control. The striker went close twice, once with a strong shot and later with a guided strike, but the keeper saved him each time.

• Haaland has now found the net in nine consecutive games.
• Manchester City controlled the ball with 69% in the opening 45 minutes.
• The Spanish team managed only a few of attempts on goal.

In the end, it was a professional display from City, who carry on their strong form in the Champions League.