In a heart-stopping clash at the Bernabeu Stadium, Real Madrid and reigning Champions League titleholders Manchester City battled to a breathtaking 3-3 draw in the first leg of their quarterfinal showdown on Wednesday.
The match kicked off with Bernardo Silva’s low free-kick putting Manchester City in the lead, only for a twist of fate as Ruben Dias’ own goal and Rodrygo Goes’ strike saw Real Madrid swiftly turn the tables.
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Time Line of Goals
03′: Real Madrid 0-1 Man City
11′: Real Madrid 1-1 Man City
14′: Real Madrid 2-1 Man City
75′: Real Madrid 2-2 Man City
77′: Real Madrid 2-3 Man City
90′: Real Madrid 3-3 Man City
Manchester City didn’t stay down for long, mounting a ferocious comeback in the second half with Phil Foden and Josko Gvardiol both finding the net in quick succession, stunning the 14-time champions. However, a scorching volley from Fede Valverde secured a crucial draw for Real Madrid, ensuring an electrifying finish to the match.
Amidst the thrilling action on the field, the atmosphere was tense due to security concerns following a threat by Islamic State targeting quarterfinal matches. However, despite heavy security measures, the match proceeded smoothly without any incidents.
Guardiola’s decision to omit Kevin De Bruyne due to illness raised eyebrows, while Madrid’s coach Carlo Ancelotti made strategic choices, including deploying defensive midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni at centre-back, which ultimately backfired with an early booking leading to City’s opening goal.
With the tie poised on a knife’s edge, both teams displayed resilience and attacking prowess, setting the stage for an enthralling second leg on April 17.
