Manchester City Prevail 2-1 Over Real Madrid at the Bernabeu

Key Takeaways:

• Manchester City secured a 2-1 away win over Real Madrid in the sixth round of the main Champions League phase
• Rodrygo opened the scoring for Real in the 28th minute before goals by Nico O’Reilly (35’) and Erling Haaland (43’ penalty) turned the game
• Both sides remain among the top 8 in the standings, with two rounds left to play

Match Analysis: Dramatic Turnaround in Madrid

Manchester City seized upon Real Madrid’s struggles to clinch a valuable 2-1 victory at the Bernabeu in their Champions League encounter. Despite an early breakthrough for the hosts via Rodrygo in the 28th minute, City responded strongly. Nico O’Reilly capitalised on a rebound to level the match in the 35th minute, and Erling Haaland delivered from the penalty spot in minute 43 to hand the visitors the lead.

This defeat extends a turbulent spell for Real Madrid, who have now registered only two wins in their last eight fixtures across all competitions. Pre-match reports indicated that the outcome could have significant implications for head coach Xabi Alonso’s tenure. Although Real’s players showed commitment on the pitch, a quick City comeback proved costly and the Spanish side wasted at least three clear chances, including hitting the post in the closing moments.

Victory at the Bernabeu! 🤩

⚪️ 1-2 💚 pic.twitter.com/l6hs2fVA3k

— Manchester City (@ManCity) December 10, 2025

Team Selections and Injury Concerns

Real Madrid were forced into several selection changes due to injuries, with Gonzalo García and Dani Ceballos stepping into the starting lineup, and Rodrygo – often overlooked – also included. Star forward Kylian Mbappé, who was absent due to leg pain, was named among the substitutes but remained on the bench for the entire match. Later, Endrick’s introduction gave the home team an extra edge, but he was unlucky to see his header rebound off the post in the 85th minute.

Manchester City maintained a simpler approach, growing in confidence as the match progressed. The win marked City’s fourth consecutive victory in all competitions, underlining their momentum as the Champions League campaign continues.

Key Moments and Match Statistics

The action started early, as referee Clément Turpin initially pointed to the spot after Matheus Nunes fouled Vinícius Júnior in the second minute, only to reverse his decision and award a free-kick outside the box. Vinícius nearly found the opener in the fifth minute after connecting with a Rodrygo pass, while a Vinícius cross struck Nunes’ hand in the 16th minute but was only deemed worthy of a corner.

After City’s spell of possession, Real Madrid struck first through Rodrygo, who finished off a fine run by Álvaro Carreras. The English champions soon replied as O’Reilly turned in a rebound following a Thibaut Courtois save, bringing the score level. On 43 minutes, City were awarded a penalty for Antonio Rüdiger’s holding on Haaland after VAR intervention, and the Norwegian striker made no mistake from the spot.

Courtois excelled before half-time, with crucial saves against Haaland and Phil Foden. Jude Bellingham squandered a one-on-one against Donnarumma five minutes into the second half, while Courtois survived scares from Rayan Cherki and Jérémy Doku. Despite a spirited late push by Real, particularly from Vinícius Júnior, the home side could not convert their chances.

The closing stages saw Endrick’s header crash off the post before time expired with City taking all three points.

Upcoming Fixtures

Looking ahead to the last two matches, Real Madrid are set to welcome Monaco before travelling to face Benfica. Manchester City will be away to Bodø/Glimt in Norway and later host Galatasaray at the Etihad. Both sides are competing from a strong position within the top 8 as the main phase nears its conclusion.