🔗 Share this article Haaland Unstoppable as City Overpower the Yellow Submarine The Spanish side became the latest team to succumb to the Norwegian striker, who scored in his 9th straight Manchester City match. The visitors secured a largely comfortable 2-0 victory in Spain, with the Portuguese midfielder adding a second goal in a first half of evident dominance. While the hosts had moments in the second half, they created little sustained threat. After the forward was withdrawn late on, relief swept through the ground—the damage had long been done. Commanding Start from Manchester City City started sharply, with the number nine, Savinho, and Doku linking up to force Luíz Júnior into an early save. Only later, Haaland directed a chance just wide. Pep Guardiola employed a flexible formation, sometimes resembling a three-man defense, with the defender moving into the back line when needed. The visitors commanded 69% of the ball in the first half, though their control felt even greater. The Home Side Find It Tough to Keep Up Marcelino's team seemed unable to read their opponents' movements. They opted for a deep line and quick breaks, but City matched them in physicality and skill. Any hints of danger from the Yellow Submarine were quickly dealt with, with Rúben Dias stopping Georges Mikautadze and Pape Gueye firing off target. Composure proved key for City, especially in the build-up to the first strike. Opening Goal Highlights City's Control That first goal on 17 minutes showcased City's calmness. The Brazilian and Stones swapped the ball repeatedly on the right flank, pulling the defense out. Then, the pace changed—patient passing turned into a quick exchange, Lewis bursting into the box and pulling back for Haaland to tap in. Another Header Confirms the Win City's second goal was more straightforward. Once more, the winger sent in a ball from the wing, and Bernardo Silva drifted free to nod home from close range. After the Break Sees Brief Fightback Although the hosts displayed some life in the second half—with Pépé and others challenging the City keeper—City largely maintained command. Haaland came close twice, first with a strong shot and later with a guided strike, but the keeper denied him both times. Haaland has now scored in nine consecutive games. City controlled possession with sixty-nine percent in the opening half. Villarreal managed only a handful of shots on goal. Ultimately, it was a professional performance from City, who carry on their strong form in Europe.