The UEFA Champions League has been at it for a while and we have witnessed one of the most thrilling contests. The most recent tussle in the dramatic tournament took place between Manchester City and Real Madrid at the Etihad.
This was one very tight match considering both team’s capabilities. Read on to find out more details about this thrilling showdown.
A Quick Recap
It is no secret that Man City has struggled throughout this season in all competitions. After a shaky start, they are beginning to find their momentum again. During the kickoff, the Morenges started on a high note with attacks from Vini Jr. and Mbappe, and in one instance, they came very close to securing a goal.
However, after a well-timed ball into Gvardiol’s chest from Jack Grealish, which he then pushed to Erling Haaland, the goal machine did what he does best. Real Madrid kept on powerfully attacking in search of an equalizer, but by halftime, they were still one goal down.
Time and again, we have seen that scoring first for City has constantly come back to haunt them. In the 2nd half, Madrid literally came to play!
A screamer from Kylian Mbappe in the 60th minute put both teams level and this sent the stage into uproar. If you had visited one of the best betting sites in India and bet on Real Madrid, which seemed the better team, you’d have been in the clouds too. The reigning champions, however, were not going down without a fight. In the 89th minute, after a bad tackle from Morenges, a penalty was given to City.
Once again, Erling Haaland found the back of the net and it seemed they were very well on their way to victory. However, after super substitute Brahim Diaz came into the scene, the scoreboard shifted. His goal in the 86th minute had everyone convinced that the best outcome in this match would be a draw.
The two teams continued at it till Jude Bellingham put it to bed in the extra minutes after he beat Ederson, ending the game 3-2. While Man City haven’t been in their best form, they did put up a spirited fight against Real Madrid, who came with a clear plan in mind.
Conclusion
While this may have daunted City’s chances at hoisting the UEFA trophy for another year consecutively, it doesn’t discredit them as a first-class team. They are still trying to wiggle their way into finishing in the top three in the Premier League and with Guardiola’s determination, they just might do it.
Photo by Peter Glaser on Unsplash (Free for commercial use)