Manchester City Collapse Late Against Real Madrid in UCL Thriller despite Haaland Goals

Manchester City suffered a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat to Real Madrid in their Champions League knockout first leg at the Etihad. Erling Haaland brace (2', 78') had City leading 2-1 before Brahim Diaz (86') and Jude Bellingham (90+2') stunned the hosts. Injuries to Jack Grealish and Manuel Akanji added to City woes. Rodri consoled teammates post-match, while Vinicius Jr. celebrated Madrid dramatic win.

The latest Champions League clash between Manchester City and Real Madrid at the Etihad ended in heartbreak for the hosts, as they let a 2-1 lead slip in the final moments. City initially took control through Erling Haaland’s goal, assisted by Josko Gvardiol, before Kylian Mbappe equalized with a fortunate deflection off his shin. A late penalty converted by Haaland seemed to seal the win, but Brahim Diaz and Jude Bellingham struck in the dying minutes to give Real Madrid a dramatic 3-2 victory.

Haaland was visibly frustrated after the final whistle, quickly heading to the dressing room, while Rodri stayed back to console teammates. Despite not playing, Rodri was heavily involved pre-match, watching City’s warm-ups closely and staring at Real Madrid players, possibly in response to their reaction to his Ballon d'Or win. The Etihad crowd also made their feelings clear, booing Vinicius Jr. and chanting "Where’s your Ballon d’Or?" throughout the game.

Jack Grealish, given a rare start, had to be substituted due to injury, looking devastated as he left the pitch. With City needing a win in the second leg, the pressure is now on Pep Guardiola’s side to turn things around in Madrid next week.