For the first time in 13 matches, Erling Haaland found himself substituted without scoring as Manchester City endured a narrow and frustrating 1–0 defeat to Aston Villa. It was an unusually quiet night for the prolific Norwegian striker, who faced relentless marking and was replaced in the 86th minute — his first early exit in more than three months. Despite City’s 62% possession and several late chances to equalize, the breakthrough never came. Villa’s disciplined defensive shape held firm, leaving Pep Guardiola’s side visibly frustrated while Haaland ended the match goalless for the first time since August — an exceptionally rare sight.