Dramatic Late Winner Seals Real Madrid Victory Over Manchester City in Champions League Playoff

2025-03-01

Real Madrid secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Manchester City in the first leg of their Champions League playoff tie at the Etihad Stadium, thanks to a stoppage-time winner from Jude Bellingham. The match, which saw Manchester City twice take the lead through Erling Haaland, ended in heartbreak for the hosts as Real Madrid staged a late comeback to snatch the advantage heading into the second leg.

Haaland opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a well-constructed goal, followed by a penalty conversion in the 80th minute after Phil Foden was fouled in the box. However, Real Madrid responded each time, with Kylian Mbappe equalizing in the 60th minute after a miskicked volley and Brahim Diaz leveling again in the 86th minute. Bellingham then sealed the win in the 92nd minute, capitalizing on a defensive error to tap in the decisive goal.

The result leaves Manchester City with a mountain to climb in the second leg at the Bernabeu. Pep Guardiola’s side, which has struggled with defensive vulnerabilities this season, will need to regroup quickly. Guardiola acknowledged the team’s poor decision-making in the closing stages, while John Stones expressed frustration at the late collapse, emphasizing the need for accountability.

Real Madrid, meanwhile, showcased their trademark resilience in European competition. Carlo Ancelotti praised his team’s character and defensive discipline, though he cautioned that the tie is far from over. Bellingham, who was instrumental in the victory, highlighted the psychological battle of knockout football and credited his teammates for their adaptability.

The second leg promises to be another thrilling encounter as Manchester City aim to overturn the deficit and Real Madrid look to continue their quest for a 16th Champions League title.

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