Manchester City Overturn Early Deficit to Defeat Real Madrid

Manchester City produced an impressive Champions League comeback at the Santiago Bernabéu, overturning an early setback to defeat Real Madrid 2–1 and further intensify scrutiny surrounding manager Xabi Alonso’s increasingly uncertain position.

The hosts took an early lead through Rodrygo, who controlled a precise cross-field pass from Jude Bellingham before finishing confidently for his first goal since January.

City responded swiftly, drawing level just seven minutes later when Nico O’Reilly capitalized from close range after Thibaut Courtois could only parry Josko Gvardiol’s header back into danger.

The visitors completed the turnaround just before half-time, with Erling Haaland calmly converting a penalty after Antonio Rüdiger fouled the striker inside the area. The goal marked Haaland’s 55th in the Champions League since his debut in the competition.

Prior to kick-off, Pep Guardiola was met with jeers from the Bernabéu crowd, but City’s composed performance quickly subdued the hostile atmosphere and earned redemption for their February play-off stage defeat.

Real Madrid pressed for an equaliser in the second half, with Bellingham narrowly missing with a delicate chip and substitute Endrick striking the crossbar with a header. However, City’s disciplined defensive display proved sufficient to preserve the advantage.

Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid’s leading scorer, remained an unused substitute after being ruled unfit, underlining the injury concerns affecting the Spanish side during a challenging period.

O’Reilly delivered a standout Player of the Match performance, demonstrating maturity and defensive assurance by recording three tackles and four crucial clearances.

The defeat leaves Alonso’s position under mounting pressure, coming shortly after a board meeting held in the wake of Sunday’s loss to Celta Vigo, with speculation growing over a potential managerial change.

City’s victory lifts them to fourth place in the Champions League standings and strengthens their push for a top-eight finish, with forthcoming fixtures against Bodø/Glimt and Galatasaray presenting further opportunities.

The encounter marked the first managerial meeting between Alonso and Guardiola since their time together at Bayern Munich—a result that may prove significant for Alonso’s future at Real Madrid.