Manchester City's Late Collapse Against Real Madrid in Champions League Playoff
Manchester City suffered a dramatic late collapse against Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League playoff tie, losing 3-2 at the Etihad Stadium. Despite leading twice through Erling Haaland, City were undone by a late surge from the Spanish giants, with Jude Bellingham scoring the winner in stoppage time.
Haaland opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a well-taken goal, giving City a 1-0 lead at half-time. Real Madrid equalised in the 60th minute through Kylian Mbappe, whose miskick somehow found the net. Haaland restored City’s advantage with a penalty in the 80th minute, but the hosts’ defensive frailties resurfaced in the closing stages. Former City player Brahim Diaz levelled the score in the 86th minute, before Bellingham capitalised on a defensive error to seal the win in the 92nd minute.
The result leaves City with a mountain to climb in the second leg at the Bernabeu. Pep Guardiola’s side, who have struggled with consistency this season, were left frustrated by their inability to hold onto a lead. Guardiola admitted his team made “bad decisions” and lacked composure in key moments. John Stones echoed the sentiment, acknowledging the need for accountability and improvement.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, showcased their trademark resilience and clinical edge. Carlo Ancelotti praised his team’s character and defensive discipline, while Bellingham highlighted the psychological battle that defined the match. The late winner gives Real a crucial advantage heading into the second leg, leaving City’s Champions League hopes hanging by a thread.
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