Madrid stun City again..

In the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first-leg match on February 11, 2025, Real Madrid secured a 3-2 victory over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. This win places Madrid in a favorable position for the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Match Overview:

• First Half: Manchester City took an early lead with Erling Haaland's goal, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Madrid. However, Real Madrid responded effectively, with Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior creating significant threats. Despite their efforts, City maintained their advantage into halftime.

• Second Half: Madrid intensified their offensive play, leading to a goal from Jude Bellingham, who had been instrumental throughout the match. City regained the lead with a well-executed goal from Haaland. In the dying moments of the match, Bellingham scored again, securing the win for Madrid.

Key Performances:

• Erling Haaland (Manchester City): Haaland's clinical finishing kept City ahead, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess.

• Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid): Bellingham's two goals were crucial, highlighting his composure and skill under pressure.

• Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid): Mbappé's pace and creativity were constant threats to City's defense, contributing to the team's attacking dynamics.

Tactical Analysis:

• Manchester City: Pep Guardiola's side employed a high-pressing game, aiming to disrupt Madrid's build-up play. While they succeeded in creating goal-scoring opportunities, defensive lapses allowed Madrid to capitalize.

• Real Madrid: Carlo Ancelotti's team demonstrated resilience and adaptability, adjusting their formation to exploit City's defensive weaknesses. The attacking trio of Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Bellingham was particularly effective.

Expected Goals (xG) Analysis:

Advanced statistics provide insight into the quality of chances created by both teams:

• Manchester City: Accumulated an xG of 2.74, indicating they created high-quality chances. However, they converted only two of these opportunities, suggesting some inefficiency in finishing.

• Real Madrid: Achieved an xG of 1.37, reflecting fewer but still significant chances. Their clinical finishing, especially in the second half, was pivotal in securing the victory.

Real Madrid's 3-2 win over Manchester City was a testament to their attacking efficiency and composure under pressure. While City created more high-quality chances, Madrid's clinical finishing and strategic adjustments were decisive. The return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Madrid holding a slight advantage.