Manchester City Stuns Real Madrid with 4-3 Victory: Key Moments and Performances in UEFA Champions League 2021-22 Semifinal
In a thrilling encounter at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, April 26, Manchester City emerged triumphant with a 4-3 win over Real Madrid in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinals.
The match kicked off with a bang as Kevin De Bruyne opened the scoring for Manchester City just two minutes into the game, nodding in a perfect cross from Riyad Mahrez with a spectacular diving header.
Shortly after, Gabriel Jesus extended City’s lead, overpowering David Alaba to slot home a well-placed pass from De Bruyne past Thibaut Courtois.
Real Madrid fought back, with Karim Benzema pulling one back for the visitors before halftime, skillfully redirecting a cross from Ferland Mendy beyond Ederson Moraes.
After the break, Phil Foden added to City’s tally with a deft header off a precise delivery from Fernandinho in the 53rd minute, while Vinicius Jr. showcased his talent with a sublime solo effort, breezing past Fernandinho before calmly finishing past Ederson.
Bernardo Silva further widened the gap, seizing an opportunity as Real Madrid momentarily lost focus, smashing home City’s fourth goal in the 74th minute.
Benzema, however, ensured a tense finale by converting a penalty in the 82nd minute after Aymeric Laporte was penalized for handball, keeping Real Madrid’s hopes alive for the return leg.
Top Performers and Lapses:
5. Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City) – Star of the Show
De Bruyne’s early goal set the tone for Manchester City’s dominant performance. His dynamic play saw him not only find the net but also create opportunities for his teammates. With three duels won, five recoveries, three chances created, and two successful dribbles, De Bruyne’s impact was undeniable, dictating the tempo of the game and facilitating swift transitions for his side.
4. David Alaba (Real Madrid) – Struggles at the Back
Alaba endured a difficult outing against Manchester City’s relentless attacks. His lapse in concentration allowed Gabriel Jesus to capitalize and score City’s second goal. Throughout the game, Alaba appeared out of sync with his defensive partner and was eventually substituted due to fitness concerns. His disjointed performance highlighted Real Madrid’s defensive vulnerabilities on the night.
3. Bernardo Silva (Manchester City) – Midfield Maestro
Silva’s influence was felt across the pitch as he orchestrated Manchester City’s midfield dominance. His well-timed goal further solidified City’s lead, showcasing his ability to exploit opportunities. With an impressive stat line including seven duels won, three tackles, six recoveries, and two chances created, Silva’s versatility and link-up play were instrumental in City’s commanding performance.
2. Eder Militao (Real Madrid) – Defensive Woes
Militao struggled to contain Manchester City’s attacking prowess, often finding himself outmaneuvered and out of position. His lack of composure in defense contributed to City’s goal-scoring opportunities, highlighting his struggles with distribution and decision-making under pressure. Militao’s subpar performance underscored Real Madrid’s defensive frailties in a challenging fixture.
1. Karim Benzema (Real Madrid) – Lone Bright Spot
Benzema emerged as Real Madrid’s standout performer, delivering a brace to keep his side in contention. His clinical finishing and composure under pressure were evident as he scored from both open play and the penalty spot. Despite facing setbacks, including missed penalties in previous matches, Benzema’s resilience and experience shone through, reaffirming his status as a pivotal figure for Los Blancos in their quest for Champions League glory.