Manchester City disappointed by usual hero as Real Madrid win thrilling Champions League final on penalties
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Real Madrid edged past Manchester City on penalties to reach the Champions League semi-finals.
Real Madrid fought tooth and nail to down Manchester City and reach the Champions League semi-finals in dramatic fashion. Kevin De Bruyne’s close-range finish in the second half cancelled out Rodrygo’s early opener before the match went to penalties, with Antonio Rudiger striking the decisive blow from 12 yards.
Express Sports takes a look at the biggest talking points from tonight’s game at the Etihad Stadium. Erling Haaland was simply not at the races in attack, with the Norwegian forward having just seven touches in the opening 35 minutes without completing a single pass.
City’s prized asset, who is normally so prolific in front of goal, also missed two huge chances to level the scores before the break. Guardiola outfoxed by Ancelotti.
There was a clear winner in the tactical battle between Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti, with the Italian coming out on top when it mattered most. Real Madrid were always going to be on the back foot but they executed their plan to perfection, beating City’s press time and time again in the first half.
Kyle Walker was imperious against Vinicius in last year’s semi-final but initially found himself on the wrong end of the stick this time around. Making his return to City’s starting line-up, the England defender looked rusty in the opening exchanges and was guilty of playing Vinicius onside in the build-up to Rodrygo’s opening goal.
Bellingham did much of the dirty work for Real Madrid but was equally impressive going forward, pulling off an exquisite first touch in the build-up to Rodrygo’s goal. There has been plenty of debate over who should be given the advanced role for England this summer at Euro 2024.
Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham are the standout contenders but the latter’s performance in the engine room served as clear evidence that both players can coexist in different positions. Bellingham might well be given the same role for England if Foden plays behind Harry Kane up top, with Gareth Southgate likely to be impressed with what he saw from Bellingham at the Etihad Stadium.
