Overview
- Erling Haaland scored in the 17th minute and Bernardo Silva added a header in the 40th to settle the match before halftime.
- City controlled possession and pressed Villarreal’s buildup, turning patient circulation into clear chances down the right flank.
- Rico Lewis created the opener for Haaland, and Savinho supplied the measured cross that Bernardo Silva guided in for the second.
- Villarreal’s plan for a physical midfield was undercut by early defensive lapses, though a late Partey header hit the post.
- Luiz Júnior produced multiple saves to deny Savinho and Haaland, while Villarreal remained winless in the group and must seek points in the coming fixtures.