An intriguing first-leg battle at the Santiago Bernabeu ended in a draw, but the game was largely even. It was filled with a few controversial moments, but the quality of the game certainly delivered which sets up a tense second leg in Manchester.
Manchester City’s early domination was something we had not really seen at the Bernabeu this season, a stadium which it is notoriously difficult to snatch a result from. There were half chances, but Real Madrid’s defending was perfect. Los Blancos had perfect positioning on multiple occasions which minimised the chances.
With Casemiro departing last season, Real Madrid have had to find a solution for the pivot in their midfield. Although Aurelien Tchouameni is an impressive prospect, their experience with Luka Modric and Toni Kroos has been vital in their European success. Toni Kroos was composed in the pivot last night and controlled the tempo fantastically at times.
Despite the domination, credit goes to the quality of Vinicius Jr, who was the standout of the fixture. He was repeatedly taking on City players and forcing his side forward, whose chances were limited. His finish near the end of the first half was absolutely spectacular. The Brazilian is undoubtedly in the Haaland and Mbappe conversation and has become a figurehead of this Real Madrid side this season.
Manchester City started the second half tremendously, pressing relentlessly and searching for an equaliser. Despite this, Manchester City relied on one of their all-time great players to score a crucial equaliser. Kevin De Bruyne’s screamer might just be a decisive goal in this tie. It feels as if, no matter how inevitable Real Madrid are, Manchester City have matured and might just be ready to go all the way.
Real Madrid must focus on utilising their big-game players in the second leg. Manchester City have their round-the-corner passes and left-side dominated attacks. Karim Benzema was particularly unused last night, which was potentially a ploy from Pep Guardiola. The second leg will likely be a tight, fascinating tactical battle.
The Etihad will be well up for the second leg, which is set to be a thriller, and it is so genuinely tough to call. Whoever wins will be undoubtedly deserving and might just go on to win the whole thing. Will Real Madrid conquer Europe again, or will Pep Guardiola and Manchester City reach the final yet again with a shot to make history?
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