đź”— Share this article Haaland Unstoppable as Manchester City Defeat Villarreal The Spanish side became the most recent team to fall to the Norwegian striker, who scored in his 9th straight Manchester City match. Pep Guardiola's men secured a relatively easy 2-0 victory in Spain, with Bernardo Silva contributing a second goal in a opening 45 minutes of clear dominance. While the home team had moments in the second period, they created minimal sustained danger. After Haaland was withdrawn late on, a collective sigh swept through the stadium—the impact had already been inflicted. Dominant Opening from City City began brightly, with the number nine, Savinho, and Doku combining to force LuĂz JĂşnior into an early save. Only moments, Haaland headed a chance just wide. Pep Guardiola employed a flexible setup, at times resembling a 3-2-4-1, with the defender dropping back to the back line when needed. The visitors enjoyed 69% of the ball in the opening period, though their control appeared even greater. Villarreal Struggle to Cope Marcelino's team seemed unable to decipher their opponents' movements. Villarreal opted for a defensive block and fast breaks, but the away side matched them in athleticism and skill. The only glimpses of danger from the hosts were swiftly dealt with, with RĂşben Dias stopping Georges Mikautadze and Gueye firing wide. Composure proved crucial for Manchester City, especially in the lead-up to the opening goal. Opening Strike Highlights City's Control That opening goal on 17 minutes showcased City's calmness. Savinho and John Stones swapped passes multiple times on the right flank, drawing Villarreal wide. Then, the tempo shifted—patient passing turned into a quick exchange, Rico Lewis bursting into the box and pulling back for Haaland to finish. Another Header Confirms the Victory City's second strike was more straightforward. Again, Savinho delivered a cross from the right, and Bernardo Silva arrived unmarked to head home from close range. Second Half Sees Brief Resistance Although the hosts displayed a bit of life in the second period—with PĂ©pĂ© and teammates testing the City keeper—City mostly kept control. Haaland came close on two occasions, first with a strong effort and then with a guided strike, but the keeper denied him each time. The Norwegian has now scored in 9 consecutive games. Manchester City controlled the ball with sixty-nine percent in the opening half. The Spanish team managed only a few of shots on target. In the end, it was a efficient display from City, as they continue their impressive form in the Champions League.