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The Spanish side became the latest team to succumb to the Norwegian striker, who netted in his ninth straight Manchester City match. The visitors claimed a largely comfortable 2-0 victory in the Cerámica, with the Portuguese midfielder adding a second in a first half of evident dominance. Although the hosts had moments in the second period, they created little consistent threat. When the forward was withdrawn late on, relief spread through the ground—the impact had long been inflicted.

Commanding Start from City

The English side began brightly, with Haaland, Savinho, and Doku combining to test Luíz Júnior into an first-minute stop. Just later, Haaland headed a chance past the post. The City manager employed a flexible setup, at times looking like a three-man defense, with John Stones moving into the back line when needed. City commanded 69% of the ball in the first half, though their dominance felt even greater.

The Home Side Struggle to Keep Up

Marcelino's squad seemed struggling to decipher their opponents' patterns. They opted for a deep block and quick breaks, but the away side exceeded them in physicality and skill. Any glimpses of danger from the Yellow Submarine were swiftly snuffed out, with the defender stopping Georges Mikautadze and Pape Gueye shooting wide.

Patience proved crucial for City, particularly in the build-up to the first goal.

First Strike Highlights City's Control

The opening goal on seventeen minutes epitomized the team's calmness. Savinho and John Stones exchanged the ball repeatedly on the right flank, pulling the defense out. Suddenly, the tempo changed—patient movement turned into a rapid exchange, Rico Lewis bursting into the area and pulling back for Haaland to finish.

Another Goal Seals the Win

The second strike was more simple. Again, the winger delivered a cross from the right, and Bernardo Silva arrived free to head home from point-blank.

After the Break Sees Momentary Fightback

While the hosts displayed some fight in the second half—with Pépé and teammates testing Gianluigi Donnarumma—the visitors largely maintained command. The striker went close twice, first with a powerful effort and later with a placed attempt, but Luíz Júnior saved him each time.

• Haaland has now found the net in nine straight games.
• Manchester City controlled the ball with 69% in the opening 45 minutes.
• The Spanish team managed only a handful of shots on goal.

Ultimately, it was a professional display from Manchester City, who carry on their impressive run in the Champions League.