Man City recover to pick up memorable Champions League win

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Real Madrid 1 - 2 Manchester City

Man City came from behind to claim a superb Champions League win at Real Madrid, piling further pressure on Xabi Alonso as the home manager’s position grows increasingly fragile.

Author | Macca

Stadium | Santiago Bernabéu

Champions League | Real Madrid v Man City | View from the away end at full time

Alonso has been under scrutiny after a poor domestic run and reports of a cultural disconnect with his squad, and the glare will intensify after his side failed to preserve an early lead.

Real were dealt a setback before kick-off when top scorer Kylian Mbappe was deemed fit only for the bench. The France captain ultimately played no part as his team fell to a dispiriting defeat.

City almost endured a disastrous opening when Matheus Nunes brought down Vinicius Jr inside two minutes. The referee initially awarded a penalty, only to change it to a free-kick on the edge of the area after a VAR check.

Federico Valverde’s driven effort from the set piece deflected just wide, while Vinicius soon curled a delicate effort past the far post as Real pressed for a breakthrough.

City appeared to have settled and asserted control of the ball when they were caught on the counter. Rodrygo latched on to Jude Bellingham’s sweeping pass and fired in his first goal since March.

Real Madrid's advantage lasted only seven minutes

City’s first clear chance produced the equaliser, with academy full-back Nico O’Reilly prodding in from close range after Josko Gvardiol’s header was tipped back into danger by Thibaut Courtois.

The visitors completed the turnaround on the stroke of half-time, Erling Haaland converting from the spot after being brought down by Antonio Rudiger.

Real pushed for a response after the break, Bellingham lifting a chance over the bar and substitute Endrick glancing a header against the crossbar. City held firm to secure an outstanding victory.

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