By Lukanyo Tshitshi
Real Madrid players celebrating after the 4 - 3 victory on penalties against Manchester City at Etihad Stadium on Wednesday. image credit: AP.
The Spanish giants, Real Madrid, got better off Pep Guardiola’s side, Manchester City, in a very tactical second leg of UEFA Champions League (UCL) quarter-final tie played in front of thousands of Manchester City supporters at Etihad Stadium in England on Wednesday.
The Spanish giants, Real Madrid, got better off Pep Guardiola’s side, Manchester City, in a very tactical UEFA Champions League (UCL) quarter-final second leg tie played in front of thousands of Manchester City supporters at Etihad Stadium in England on Wednesday.
Playing at Manchester City’s slaughterhouse against Guardiola’s animated side after failing to defeat them at home in the first leg tie, Real Madrid’s fantasy of adding another UCL tittle to their cabinet of 14 UCL trophies was hazy heading into this game.
Following an enthralling six-goal thriller game in the first leg, this game was anticipated to put on a remarkable football show, but that did not happen as the game was too tight and tactical.
Following an impressive start to the game, Real Madrid took the lead in the 12th minute through Brazilian youngster Rodrygo. The Citizens came knocking numerous times but were denied by Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin. It wasn't until the 76th minute of the second half that Guardiola's side equalised through Kevin De Bruyne, levelling the aggregate score to 4-4.
After 30 minutes of extra time, the game was settled on penalty shootouts. Real Madrid walked out victorious after scoring 4 penalties out of 5, while Manchester City scored 3 out of 5.
Talking to the TNT sports after the game, Real Madrid head coach, Carlo Ancelotti (64) acclaimed his team and accoladed Guardiola’s side.
“I am so proud [ of the team] because we are not used to defend like this, but we are [were] really focused and good position,
“Manchester city is a fantastic team, one of the best team in Europe and beating them I think it open an opportunity to win again the Champions league,” he said.
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