Manchester City‘s Champions League journey came to an end as they were defeated by Real Madrid in a tense penalty shootout during the quarter-final at Etihad Stadium.
Despite an early setback with Rodrygo’s goal, City equalized 14 minutes before the end of regulation time with a strike from Kevin de Bruyne. Although City dominated the match, their lack of finishing allowed Real Madrid to force penalties.
🙌 ¡ESTAMOS EN SEMIFINALES! 🙌
🏁 @ManCityES (3) 1-1 (4) @RealMadrid (Global 4-4)
⚽ 12′ @RodrygoGoes
⚽ 76′ De Bruyne#UCL pic.twitter.com/oPqc5CoYwgAdvertisement— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) April 17, 2024
Manchester City seemed poised to face Bayern Munich in the semi-final when Luka Modric missed Real Madrid’s first penalty. However, crucial saves by Real Madrid’s keeper Andriy Lunin, including stopping Bernardo Silva’s penalty, paved the way for Real Madrid’s victory. Former Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger scored the decisive penalty, ending City’s aspirations for a Treble.
Manchester City’s manager Pep Guardiola expressed no regrets about the match but will need to prepare his team for their FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea at Wembley on Saturday.
Real Madrid’s keeper Lunin stood out with his impressive performance, making crucial saves to keep City at bay and guiding his team to the semi-finals. The match also provided valuable experience for England’s Jude Bellingham, who showcased his skill by assisting in Rodrygo’s goal and confidently converting a penalty in the shootout.
Lunin, Ederson and Raya with 🔝 stops 🧤
Who impressed you most? @TurkishAirlines || #UCLsaves pic.twitter.com/8vO0C0g7o2
Advertisement— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 17, 2024
Real Madrid‘s resilience and expertise in the Champions League were evident as they outlasted City and continued their journey in the competition.
