Real Madrid and Manchester City delivered a Champions League spectacle at the Santiago Bernabeu, leaving fans on the edge of their seats, reported by GOAL. Carlo Ancelotti's men battled back from an early deficit, only to concede a late equalizer, ending the first leg of their quarter-final tie in a thrilling 3-3 draw.

Early lead for Manchester City, late drama for Real Madrid

Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham in front of the Real Madrid logo on one side, Erling Haaland and Kevin de Bruyne in front of the Manchester City logo

The match began with Manchester City taking an early lead, putting Real Madrid on the back foot. However, the resilient Blancos rallied, overturning the deficit to take the lead themselves. Yet, just when victory seemed within reach, City struck back, securing a crucial away goal with a late Federico Valverde volley. The Santiago Bernabeu witnessed a rollercoaster of emotions as the two European giants battled for supremacy.

The high-scoring affair marked a departure from their previous encounter 11 months ago. In that fixture, both teams played cautiously, resulting in a tense 1-1 draw. However, this time around, goals flowed freely as Real Madrid and Manchester City showcased their attacking prowess. The draw sets the stage for an eagerly anticipated second leg, with both sides hungry for victory.

Carlo Ancelotti's reaction

Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham told to keep his mouth shut by Carlo Ancelotti

Following the final whistle, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti shared his thoughts on the result. While disappointed not to secure a win, Ancelotti acknowledged the competitiveness of the match, stating, “What I wanted was to take a small advantage, but we have to be satisfied. We have competed and if we do so also in the second leg we can go through.” Despite the missed opportunity, Ancelotti remained optimistic about his team's chances in the return leg. Real Madrid has to be satisfied with the draw, but the advantage will be with the Citizens in the second match where the pressure will be even higher for both teams.

Looking Ahead for Real Madrid and Manchester City

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Photo: Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, Toni Kroos, Luka Modric all in action in Real Madrid jerseys, Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden in Man City jerseys on other side, Carlo Ancelotti, Pep Guardiola both in the middle coaching

With the first leg behind them, both Real Madrid and Manchester City turn their attention to the crucial second leg of the tie. The upcoming fixture promises to be another intense battle as the two sides vie for a spot in the Champions League semi-finals. Before facing off once again, Real Madrid will focus on their domestic duties, with a match against Mallorca on the horizon. Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola's City will host Luton in league action, before shifting their focus back to European competition.

As the Champions League quarter-final tie hangs in the balance, anticipation grows for the decisive second leg clash. Real Madrid and Manchester City will leave no stone unturned as they prepare to battle it out for a coveted semi-final spot. With both teams boasting formidable attacking talent, the stage is set for another enthralling encounter, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this captivating rivalry.