Real Madrid did the unthinkable yesterday when they hosted Manchester City in the second leg of the semi-final at the Santiago Bernabau. The Spanish side began brightly and so did City but the first half ended stalemate at 0-0. Manchester City however found the back of the net courtesy Riyad Mahrez who was assisted by the midfield maestro Bernardo Silva.
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola made a couple of changes and introduced Oleksandr Zinchenko who replaced a half fit Kyle Walker and the pattern saw Joao Cancelo move to the RB position. Kevin de Bryune was also withdrawn as well as Gabriel Jesus. Madrid tactician Ancelotti also made changes of his own and overhauled his midfield.
Eduardo Camavinga was introduced for the home side and he proved to be a real game changer. City seemed to be in firm control and substitute Jack Grealish also saw his goal chance cleared off the line by Ferland Mendy. Madrid were now on the defensive and Grealish saw another goal chance saved by the foot of Thibaut Courtois.
As stoppage time approached, Madrid had the spark ignite in them. A long ball into the box was played in by Camavinga towards Karim Benzema and the star striker played in the cross that saw Rodrygo Goes score to give the home support something to cheer. Just two minutes later, Goes was on the score sheet as Dani Carvajal’s cross was headed into the net by the 20-year-old.
The aggregate score was 5-5 and the game was heading to extra time. Five minutes into extra time, Ruben Dias of City hacked down Karim Benzema in the 18-yard box. The Frenchman converted from the spot to make 3-1 and 6-5 on aggregate. Manchester were undone in their quest for Champions League glory and Real Madrid have a chance to make it 14 UCL titles should they win Liverpool at the Stade de France on the 28th of May.
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