Manchester City defeated Villarreal 2-0 in a Champions League match at La Cerámica. Erling Haaland and Bernardo Silva scored the goals that dismantled the home defense. Pep Guardiola praised his team's control against a top-level opponent.
Manchester City arrived in Castellón de la Plana with a lethal attack through the central lanes, led by Erling Haaland and Bernardo Silva, leaving Villarreal helpless in a Champions League match. Pep Guardiola's team won 2-0, with first-half goals sealing the victory.
The game started with City dominating from the outset. Just two minutes in, they created two clear chances: a shot from Doku saved by Luiz and a Haaland header wide after a pass from Silva. Villarreal coach Marcelino admitted: “Those two chances made us doubt excessively, we started doubting everything, we felt vulnerable.” “We seemed like a dazed boxer waiting for the next blow, we lost reactivity.”
The first goal came from a play down the right flank. Savinho assisted Rico Lewis, who crossed for Haaland to head past Foyth after shaking him off. It was Haaland's 15th goal in 11 Premier and Champions League matches this season. Without injured Rodri and with Foden on the bench, Bernardo Silva was pivotal, covering 70 meters to stop Pépé's counter.
The second goal was scored by Silva himself with a header at the penalty spot, following another move involving Savinho and Lewis. Villarreal, in a defensive 4-4-2, had few opportunities: a Buchanan run thwarted by Silva and second-half shots from Foyth, Pépé, and Moleiro that didn't change the score. Guardiola, pleased, said: “We will be what we were,” after a rocky start with draws against Monaco and Arsenal.
City's defense, featuring Dias, Gvardiol, Nunes, and Stones, neutralized Villarreal's quick transitions, allowing control that eases pressure on Guardiola.