Haaland Scores Again as Man City Beat Villarreal 2-0

Haaland Strikes Again as Manchester City Outclass Villarreal 2-0 in Champions League

Erling Haaland extended his incredible scoring run to 12 consecutive games as Manchester City ended their away winless streak in Europe with a composed 2-0 victory over Villarreal in the Champions League group stage.

The Norwegian superstar, now on 24 goals in 14 games this season, opened the scoring early with a trademark poacher’s finish, while Bernardo Silva added a second before the break to seal all three points.

Clinical City Take Control Early

City wasted no time asserting dominance. Haaland headed wide just two minutes in and Jeremy Doku forced a save from Luiz Junior seconds later, setting the tone for the evening.

The breakthrough came in the 15th minute when Rico Lewis delivered a pinpoint low cross and Haaland peeled away from his marker to slam home first-time—a masterclass in striker’s movement.

City doubled their lead through captain Bernardo Silva, who rose unmarked to head in Savinho’s deep cross, punishing Villarreal’s defensive lapse.

City End Away Hoodoo in Europe

The win was Manchester City’s first Champions League away victory in over a year, snapping a five-game winless streak on the road in the competition. Their last away success came in October 2024 against Slovan Bratislava.

Now unbeaten in nine straight matches across all competitions, City move to fifth in their Champions League group with two wins and a draw from three games—putting them in strong contention for qualification.

They will next travel to Real Madrid in December, a match that could define their group standing.

Haaland’s Spanish Speciality

Haaland now has nine goals in nine games against Spanish clubs, reaffirming his reputation as one of the deadliest strikers in world football. His consistency remains unmatched, and his influence continues to grow in both domestic and European competition.

One Concern for Guardiola: Injury to Nico Gonzalez

A slight concern emerged when Nico Gonzalez, playing in Rodri’s absence, hobbled off just before the hour mark. With a tight fixture schedule ahead, his fitness will be closely monitored.

Villarreal Struggle Despite Brave Second Half

Despite a spirited second-half response, Villarreal could not break down City’s defence. They hit the post through Renato Veiga and tested Gianluigi Donnarumma via Pape Gueye, but lacked the clinical edge needed.

Marcelino’s side, currently third in La Liga, have now failed to win any of their first three Champions League games. Qualification hopes hang by a thread unless form improves rapidly.

What’s Next?

• Villarreal: Face Valencia in La Liga on Saturday at 20:00 BST

• Manchester City: Travel to Aston Villa in the Premier League on Sunday at 14:00 BST