đź”— Share this article Erling Haaland Irresistible as Manchester City Defeat Villarreal Villarreal became the most recent team to fall to Erling Haaland, who netted in his ninth straight City fixture. Pep Guardiola's men claimed a relatively easy 2-0 win in Spain, with Bernardo Silva contributing a second goal in a opening 45 minutes of evident dominance. While the home team had chances in the second period, they created little sustained threat. When Haaland was withdrawn late on, a collective sigh swept through the stadium—his impact had already been done. Dominant Start from Manchester City The English side started sharply, with Haaland, the winger, and JĂ©rĂ©my Doku combining to force LuĂz JĂşnior into an first-minute stop. Just later, Haaland headed a chance past the post. Pep Guardiola employed a flexible formation, at times looking like a three-man defense, with John Stones moving into defense when needed. The visitors enjoyed 69% of the ball in the first half, although their dominance appeared more pronounced. Villarreal Find It Tough to Cope Marcelino's team appeared unable to decipher their opponents' patterns. Villarreal relied on a deep line and quick breaks, but City exceeded them in athleticism and technique. Any glimpses of danger from the Yellow Submarine were quickly snuffed out, with RĂşben Dias denying Mikautadze and Gueye firing wide. Composure was crucial for City, particularly in the lead-up to the opening goal. Opening Goal Highlights Their Control The first goal on 17 minutes showcased City's calmness. The Brazilian and John Stones swapped passes repeatedly on the right, pulling the defense wide. Suddenly, the pace changed—patient passing turned into a quick sequence, Lewis surging into the box and squaring for the forward to finish. Another Header Confirms the Victory The next strike was even simple. Once more, Savinho sent in a cross from the wing, and Silva drifted free to head home from point-blank. Second Half Sees Momentary Resistance While Villarreal showed some fight in the second period—with Nicolas PĂ©pĂ© and others testing Gianluigi Donnarumma—the visitors largely kept command. The striker came close on two occasions, first with a powerful effort and then with a placed strike, but LuĂz JĂşnior saved him each time. Haaland has now scored in nine straight games. Manchester City controlled possession with 69% in the first 45 minutes. The Spanish team recorded only a few of shots on goal. In the end, it was a professional display from City, who continue their strong form in the Champions League.