Manchester City came from behind to claim a superb 2–1 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League league stage on Wednesday, piling intense pressure on Los Blancos manager Xabi Alonso.
Real Madrid struck first when Rodrygo rifled home Jude Bellingham’s sweeping cross-field pass on 28 minutes, scoring his first goal since March. But City equalised seven minutes later through academy left-back Nico O’Reilly, who poked in from close range after Thibaut Courtois failed to deal with a looping header.
Erling Haaland completed the turnaround shortly before half-time, burying a penalty after Antonio Rüdiger bundled him over in the box. The Norwegian now has 55 Champions League goals — the most by any player since his debut in 2019.
Real Madrid, missing injured top scorer Kylian Mbappé who remained on the bench, pushed for an equaliser in the second half. Bellingham chipped over the bar and substitute Endrick clipped the crossbar with a glancing header, but City held firm.
The defeat deepens the uncertainty surrounding Alonso, whose team has struggled in La Liga and reportedly clashed with him over tactical changes. A Real Madrid board meeting earlier in the week had already cast doubt on his job security.
City, meanwhile, recovered from their slip-up against Bayer Leverkusen and moved up to fourth in the standings. They face Bodo/Glimt and Galatasaray next as they aim for a top-eight finish.
Player of the Match:
Nico O’Reilly (Man City) – 8.16 rating
Next fixtures
Real Madrid: Away to Alavés on Sunday
Manchester City: Away to Crystal Palace on Sunday
