Manchester City delivered a statement victory at the Santiago Bernabéu, beating Real Madrid 2-1 in a thrilling UEFA Champions League clash that pushed Xabi Alonso’s side deeper into crisis. With only two wins in their last eight matches, Los Blancos continue to struggle for form, while City march confidently into the Round of 16.
The win was City’s second-ever victory at the Bernabéu, and it came with big moments, top-quality goals, and more individual brilliance from Erling Haaland—who continues rewriting Champions League history.
Rodrygo Strikes First… Ending a Long Goal Drought
Real Madrid started brightly and were rewarded in the 28th minute when Rodrygo fired home the opener. Remarkably, it was his first goal in his last 32 appearances for Los Blancos—a much-needed breakthrough for the Brazilian.
Even more impressive, the strike became his fifth career goal against Manchester City, proving once again that he loves this fixture.
But Madrid’s joy did not last.
Nico O’Reilly Equalizes Before Haaland Takes Over
Manchester City responded swiftly. Youngster Nico O’Reilly showed great composure to level the score in the 35th minute, punishing Madrid’s shaky defending.
Just before halftime, the turning point arrived.
A City attack forced a penalty, and Erling Haaland stepped up with ice in his veins. His 43rd-minute spot-kick gave City the lead—and ultimately the win. The Norwegian superstar has now accumulated 55 UCL goals in just 54 matches, an astonishing record that places him among the legends of the competition.
All-Time Champions League Top Scorers
- Cristiano Ronaldo – 140 goals
- Lionel Messi – 129 goals
- Robert Lewandowski – 105 goals
- Karim Benzema – 90 goals
- Raúl – 71 goals
- Kylian Mbappé – 64 goals
- Thomas Müller – 57 goals
- Ruud van Nistelrooy – 56 goals
- Erling Haaland – 55 goals 🆕
At just 24 years old, Haaland is closing in fast on the all-time greats.
City Dominate, Courtois Saves Madrid from Embarrassment
Despite playing away, Manchester City created numerous chances throughout the match. The Premier League champions dictated tempo, pressed intelligently, and sliced through Madrid’s defence with ease.
If not for Thibaut Courtois, the scoreline could have been far worse for Los Blancos. The Belgian goalkeeper made several crucial saves—reminding fans why he remains one of the world’s best shot-stoppers.
Even with City’s dominance, the match ended 2-1, a fair reflection of both teams’ performances.
Both Teams Advance to the Round of 16
Despite the defeat, Real Madrid still progressed to the UCL Round of 16, thanks to their earlier wins in the group. City, meanwhile, topped the group with confidence and continue to look like strong contenders for another deep Champions League run.
For Xabi Alonso, however, the pressure intensifies. With only two wins in eight matches, Real Madrid find themselves in one of their toughest spells in recent seasons.
Guardiola’s side, on the other hand, grow stronger with every match—and with Haaland firing relentlessly, Manchester City remain one of the favourites to go all the way.
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