Bellingham's Stoppage-Time Heroics Give Real Madrid Edge Over Manchester City

2025-03-01

Jude Bellingham scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner as Real Madrid came from behind to defeat Manchester City 3-2 in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League play-off at the Etihad Stadium. The victory gives Real Madrid a crucial advantage heading into the second leg in Madrid.

Manchester City took the lead twice through Erling Haaland, who opened the scoring in the first half with a clinical finish and later converted a penalty to make it 2-1. However, Real Madrid refused to relent. Kylian Mbappé equalized with a miscued volley early in the second half, and substitute Brahim Díaz leveled the score again in the 86th minute after capitalizing on a rebound from Ederson’s save. Bellingham then sealed the win in stoppage time, tapping in a lobbed pass from Vinícius Júnior.

The match was a thrilling encounter, with both teams creating numerous chances. City’s inability to hold onto their lead late in the game raised concerns, while Real Madrid’s attacking quartet of Mbappé, Vinícius, Bellingham, and Rodrygo proved relentless. Pep Guardiola’s side now faces an uphill battle in the second leg, scheduled for February 19 at the Bernabéu.

Real Madrid, the 15-time Champions League winners, will look to finish the job on home soil and secure a spot in the Last 16. Meanwhile, Manchester City must regroup ahead of their Premier League clash with Newcastle before traveling to Spain.

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