Manchester City’s hopes of securing a first-leg advantage in their Champions League clash with Real Madrid were dashed in dramatic fashion, as the reigning champions fell to a 3-2 defeat in a thrilling encounter.
The night began with City fans unveiling a banner aimed at Real Madrid and Vinicius Junior, referencing last year’s Ballon d’Or controversy. However, it was Madrid who had the final say, with Jude Bellingham scoring a stoppage-time winner to hand the Spanish giants a crucial lead heading into the second leg.
City twice took the lead through Erling Haaland, but Madrid responded through Kylian Mbappe and substitute Brahim Diaz before Bellingham sealed the victory in the dying moments. The result left City defender John Stones reflecting on a night of "anger and frustration" after his side failed to hold onto their advantage.
Both teams created numerous chances, with efforts striking the woodwork in a pulsating contest. The defeat marks the fourth consecutive season that these two European heavyweights have met in the knockout stages, setting up another blockbuster showdown at the Santiago Bernabéu on February 19.
The night began with City fans unveiling a banner aimed at Real Madrid and Vinicius Junior, referencing last year’s Ballon d’Or controversy. However, it was Madrid who had the final say, with Jude Bellingham scoring a stoppage-time winner to hand the Spanish giants a crucial lead heading into the second leg.
City twice took the lead through Erling Haaland, but Madrid responded through Kylian Mbappe and substitute Brahim Diaz before Bellingham sealed the victory in the dying moments. The result left City defender John Stones reflecting on a night of "anger and frustration" after his side failed to hold onto their advantage.
Both teams created numerous chances, with efforts striking the woodwork in a pulsating contest. The defeat marks the fourth consecutive season that these two European heavyweights have met in the knockout stages, setting up another blockbuster showdown at the Santiago Bernabéu on February 19.
