In a nail-biting encounter at the Etihad Stadium, Real Madrid edged Manchester City 3-2 in the first leg of their Champions League knockout phase playoff on February 11, 2025. Jude Bellingham clinched an unforgettable victory for the Champions League holders with a dramatic last-minute goal. This match was a rollercoaster, with City creating an early lead through Erling Haaland, who netted a volley after a VAR check confirmed no offside. Kylian Mbappé responded for Madrid in the 60th minute, capitalizing on a rebound, before Haaland restored City's lead with a penalty 10 minutes from time. However, Brahim Díaz leveled for Real in the 86th minute, capitalizing on a clearance. Bellingham's stunning finish in the 92nd minute secured the win, intensifying the rivalry between these European giants. As the clubs prepare for their second encounter on February 19 in Madrid, Guardiola and Ancelotti reflect on the match's excitement and the challenges ahead. This match added another chapter to their ongoing rivalry, marking the fourth consecutive year the two sides have faced off in the Champions League knockout stages. Both managers acknowledge the historic significance of this fixture, describing it as a modern classic.
