Manchester City produced an impressive comeback to beat Real Madrid 2–1 at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday, intensifying the scrutiny on Los Blancos manager Xabi Alonso.
Real Madrid started brightly and took the lead when Rodrygo finished off a swift counterattack in the 28th minute. But City overturned the deficit before halftime, with Nico O’Reilly scrambling in the equaliser from a corner and Erling Haaland calmly converting a penalty moments later. The spot kick marked Haaland’s 51st Champions League goal in just 50 starts.
The result leaves Madrid reeling after a disappointing league defeat to Celta Vigo on Saturday, putting Alonso under renewed pressure as frustration echoed around the Bernabéu at full-time. Madrid were also without Kylian Mbappé, who remained on the bench due to injury.
Madrid Start Fast, but City Take Control
Real thought they had a penalty early on when Vinícius Júnior was brought down by Matheus Nunes, but VAR downgraded the foul to a free kick outside the box. Moments later, Madrid missed a chance to double their lead when Vinícius failed to meet Rodrygo’s low cross.
The hosts eventually broke through thanks to a slick move involving Jude Bellingham, whose pass released Rodrygo to finish low across Gianluigi Donnarumma.
City responded strongly. Courtois kept out a Gvardiol header, only for O’Reilly to finish the rebound. Minutes later, Antonio Rüdiger’s off-the-ball foul on Haaland resulted in a long VAR review and a penalty, which the Norwegian dispatched with his usual composure.
Second Half Pressure, but No Equaliser
Madrid pushed hard after the break, with Bellingham firing over, Rüdiger heading wide, and substitute Endrick striking the crossbar. Courtois made several key saves to keep the contest alive, including stops from Haaland and Rayan Cherki.
But City held firm to secure a crucial win in their Champions League league-phase campaign, easing tension after their unexpected defeat to Bayer Leverkusen last month.
What It Means
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Real Madrid suffer a second straight defeat, heightening pressure on manager Xabi Alonso.
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Manchester City climb up the table with a valuable three points.
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Madrid’s attack lacked sharpness without Mbappé, who watched from the bench.
Attendance at the Bernabéu was 76,977 for a match that delivered drama, tension, and growing uncertainty for Madrid’s season.
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