In a captivating encounter at the Bernabeu, Manchester City and Real Madrid battled to a 3-3 draw in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final clash, setting up an intriguing return fixture at the Etihad Stadium.
Manchester City seized an early lead just two minutes into the game as Bernardo Silva curled in a clever 25-yard free-kick past goalkeeper Andriy Lunin. However, Madrid responded swiftly with two deflected strikes – first, Eduardo Camavinga’s long-range effort found the net via Ruben Dias, followed by Rodrygo’s goal, which came after getting behind City’s defense and deflecting off Manuel Akanji’s heel.
Despite City’s dominance in possession, they lacked quality in the final third until Phil Foden stepped up with a brilliant strike from outside the area to level the score. Shortly after, Josko Gvardiol’s superb right-foot shot put City ahead, only for Madrid to equalize once again through Federico Valverde’s stunning volley.
The thrilling draw sets up an enticing second leg at the Etihad Stadium, where City will aim to capitalize on their home advantage and secure a spot in the semi-finals. However, there was late concern for City as Foden hobbled off the pitch with an ankle injury, although he remains hopeful of being fit for their upcoming Premier League fixture against Luton.