Manchester City came from behind to beat Real Madrid 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu, giving more pressure on Real manager Xabi Alonso. This was only City’s second win ever at Madrid’s home ground.
The game started fast. Vinícius Júnior went down in the box under a challenge from Matheus Nunes, and the referee initially gave a penalty. VAR, however, confirmed the foul was outside the area. Federico Valverde’s free-kick went just wide, and Vini Jr’s effort also went over the bar. Real looked to take advantage of City’s slow start, and Rodrygo finally scored to end a 32-game goal drought.
City hit back with their first real chance. Joško Gvardiol got a touch on a corner from Rayan Cherki, and Nico O’Reilly scored from close range. Moments later, Antonio Rüdiger fouled Erling Haaland in the box. The penalty was given after a VAR review, and Haaland scored to make it 2-1.
After the break, Jude Bellingham missed a good chance for Real, and several more opportunities by Vinícius Júnior and Endrick went begging. Despite sustained pressure, City defended well to hold on for the win.
The result strengthens City’s hopes of automatic qualification to the last 16, while Real face mounting criticism after back-to-back home defeats.
