Manchester City’s Champions League campaign is hanging in the balance after Jude Bellingham’s stoppage-time goal secured a dramatic 3-2 victory for Real Madrid in the first leg of their play-off tie at Etihad Stadium.
City started strong, with Jack Grealish and Josko Gvardiol combining to set up Erling Haaland for the opener in the 19th minute.
Grealish, however, was forced off injured, and City’s momentum stalled. Haaland struck the crossbar early in the second half before Kylian Mbappe equalised from close range on the hour mark.
Dani Ceballos’ foul on Phil Foden gave City a chance to regain the lead, and Haaland converted from the spot in the 80th minute. However, Real Madrid, known for their resilience, struck twice late on.
Former City midfielder Brahim Diaz equalised in the 86th minute before Bellingham sealed the win from close range in stoppage time.
City’s defensive frailties were exposed once again, conceding two late goals for the fifth time this season. With key players like Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne struggling for form, Pep Guardiola’s side now face a difficult task at the Bernabeu, where Real Madrid’s dominance in the competition has been well-established.
Guardiola acknowledged his team’s inconsistency, stating, “We are just not stable enough. Many times this season, we have taken bad decisions. The accountability belongs to all of us.”
Vinicius Jr, who many thought was mocked by City fans with their pre-match tifo, ultimately had the last laugh as he picked up the ‘Man of the Match’ award.
City will need a remarkable turnaround in Madrid to keep their Champions League hopes alive, but history suggests that Real Madrid, particularly at home, rarely let such advantages slip.
- Desk Reporthttps://foresightmags.com/author/admin/
- Desk Reporthttps://foresightmags.com/author/admin/
- Desk Reporthttps://foresightmags.com/author/admin/
- Desk Reporthttps://foresightmags.com/author/admin/
