🔗 Share this article Erling Haaland Irresistible as City Defeat the Yellow Submarine The Spanish side became the most recent team to succumb to Erling Haaland, who scored in his 9th consecutive City match. Pep Guardiola's men claimed a relatively easy 2-0 win in Spain, with the Portuguese midfielder adding a second in a opening 45 minutes of clear dominance. While the hosts had moments in the second half, they posed little sustained danger. After the forward was substituted late on, relief swept through the stadium—his damage had long been done. Commanding Opening from Manchester City City began brightly, with Haaland, Savinho, and Jérémy Doku linking up to force the Villarreal keeper into an early stop. Just later, Haaland headed a chance past the post. Pep Guardiola used a fluid formation, sometimes looking like a three-man defense, with John Stones dropping into defense when needed. The visitors commanded 69% of the ball in the opening period, although their dominance appeared even greater. The Home Side Struggle to Cope The Villarreal squad seemed unable to read City's patterns. They relied on a defensive line and fast breaks, but City matched them in athleticism and technique. Any glimpses of threat from the hosts were swiftly snuffed out, with the defender stopping Georges Mikautadze and Gueye firing off target. Patience was crucial for City, especially in the build-up to the opening goal. Opening Goal Highlights Their Patience That opening goal on 17 minutes epitomized the team's calmness. The Brazilian and John Stones exchanged passes multiple times on the right, pulling Villarreal out. Suddenly, the tempo shifted—slow passing turned into a quick sequence, Lewis surging into the box and squaring for the forward to finish. Another Header Confirms the Win City's next goal was more simple. Once more, the winger delivered a cross from the right, and Silva drifted free to nod in from point-blank. After the Break Sees Momentary Fightback Although Villarreal displayed some life in the second period—with Pépé and others challenging the City keeper—City largely maintained control. Haaland came close twice, first with a strong shot and later with a placed strike, but the keeper saved him each time. Haaland has now scored in nine consecutive games. City dominated the ball with sixty-nine percent in the first 45 minutes. The Spanish team recorded only a handful of shots on target. Ultimately, it was a professional display from Manchester City, as they continue their impressive run in the Champions League.