Erling Haaland extended his remarkable goalscoring run as Manchester City secured a 2-0 victory over Villarreal in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at Estadio de la Ceramica. The Norwegian striker, who has now scored in his last 12 matches for club and country, netting 22 goals, opened the scoring in the 17th minute after a precise cutback from Rico Lewis. Bernardo Silva sealed the win before halftime, heading in a cross from Savinho past Villarreal’s goalkeeper Luiz Junior.
Pep Guardiola made four changes to the lineup from City’s weekend win over Everton, resting Phil Foden and ending a year-long winless streak in European away games. Despite losing midfielder Nico Gonzalez to injury and with Rodri Hernandez sidelined, City controlled the game early, exploiting gaps in Villarreal’s defense. The Spanish side, third in La Liga, struggled to respond, and City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma thwarted late efforts from Nicolas Pepe, who also hit the post.
Villarreal, winless in Europe this season with only one point from three matches, couldn’t capitalize on their second-half pressure. Luiz Junior made key saves to deny Haaland a second goal, while substitute Omar Marmoush made his first appearance since August.
The win keeps Manchester City unbeaten in the Champions League league phase, showcasing their dominance despite injury challenges.
