đź”— Share this article Erling Haaland Unstoppable as Manchester City Defeat the Yellow Submarine The Spanish side became the latest team to fall to Erling Haaland, who netted in his ninth straight 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 first half of clear dominance. While the hosts had moments in the second period, they created minimal sustained danger. When the forward was substituted late on, a collective sigh swept through the stadium—his impact had long been inflicted. Commanding Start from Manchester City City began brightly, with Haaland, Savinho, and Doku linking up to force LuĂz JĂşnior into an first-minute save. Just later, the striker headed a opportunity past the post. The City manager employed a fluid formation, sometimes looking like a 3-2-4-1, with the defender moving back to the back line when needed. City enjoyed sixty-nine percent of possession in the first half, although their control felt even greater. Villarreal Find It Tough to Cope Marcelino's squad seemed unable to read their opponents' movements. Villarreal relied on a defensive line and fast counterattacks, but City exceeded them in athleticism and skill. The only glimpses of danger from the Yellow Submarine were swiftly dealt with, with the defender denying Georges Mikautadze and Pape Gueye firing off target. Composure proved key for Manchester City, particularly in the build-up to the first goal. First Strike Demonstrates Their Patience That first goal on 17 minutes epitomized the team's composure. The Brazilian and John Stones swapped the ball multiple times on the right flank, drawing the defense wide. Then, the pace changed—slow passing turned into a quick exchange, Rico Lewis bursting into the area and squaring for the forward to tap in. Another Goal Seals the Victory City's second strike was even simple. Once more, Savinho delivered a cross from the right, and Bernardo Silva arrived free to head in from close range. Second Half Brings Momentary Fightback Although the hosts showed some fight in the second half—with PĂ©pĂ© and others testing Gianluigi Donnarumma—City mostly kept command. Haaland came close on two occasions, first with a strong shot and later with a placed attempt, but LuĂz JĂşnior saved him each time. Haaland has now found the net in nine consecutive matches. City dominated possession with 69% in the first 45 minutes. The Spanish team recorded only a handful of attempts on goal. In the end, it was a professional performance from City, who continue their strong run in the Champions League.