Dramatic Defeat for Manchester City Against Real Madrid in Champions League Clash
Manchester City suffered a dramatic 3-2 defeat to Real Madrid in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League play-off tie at the Etihad Stadium, with Jude Bellingham scoring a stoppage-time winner to leave Pep Guardiola’s side on the brink of elimination.
Erling Haaland opened the scoring for City in the 19th minute, capitalising on a well-worked move involving Jack Grealish and Josko Gvardiol. However, Kylian Mbappé equalised for Real Madrid on the hour mark with a mishit volley that looped over goalkeeper Ederson. Haaland restored City’s lead from the penalty spot after Phil Foden was fouled in the box, but the hosts’ defensive frailties resurfaced late in the game.
Former City player Brahim Díaz levelled the score at 2-2 in the 86th minute, pouncing on a rebound after Ederson parried Vinícius Júnior’s shot. Then, in added time, Vinícius intercepted a poor pass from Mateo Kovačić and set up Bellingham, who tapped in the winner from close range.
The result leaves City with a mountain to climb in the second leg at the Bernabéu. Guardiola admitted his side’s inability to hold onto leads has been a recurring issue this season, stating, “It’s happened many times. If something happens many times, it’s because I can’t find a solution.”
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti praised his team’s resilience, particularly their defensive performance, and expressed confidence heading into the return leg. Meanwhile, City’s hopes of progressing in the competition now hinge on overturning the deficit in Madrid, a task made even more daunting by their recent struggles for consistency.
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