Manchester City’s vulnerabilities were brutally exposed by Real Madrid’s experience and resilience in a dramatic 3-2 defeat at the Etihad. City’s fans taunted Real with a banner mocking their reaction to Rodri’s Ballon d’Or win, but it was the Spanish giants who had the last laugh.
Despite leading 2-1 until the 86th minute, City collapsed under pressure, conceding twice in the final moments. Real’s winning mentality and composure contrasted sharply with City’s nerves, marking the fifth time this season that Pep Guardiola’s side has squandered a lead.
With key players like Rodri sidelined and others struggling for fitness, City’s aging squad showed signs of decline. Jack Grealish’s early injury further weakened their efforts. Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham’s injury-time winner, following an Ederson mistake, sealed Real’s ruthless comeback.
Guardiola admitted his team lacks stability, struggling to manage crucial moments. Now facing a daunting second leg at the Bernabeu, City needs a miracle—one that history suggests favors Real Madrid. With their season unraveling, this could signal the end of an era for Guardiola’s once-dominant team.
