An eye for an eye at the Santiago Bernabeu
Real Madrid and Manchester City, two of the biggest football teams in the world will face off once again in a Champions League semifinal.
Los 'Blancos' started the match on their back foot, keeping tight defensive markings around Erling Haaland and Bernardo Silva.
Erling Haaland had one of those nights to forget, thanks to a brilliant Antonio Rudiger performance. The German center-back became Haaland's shadow for 90 minutes.
Erling Haaland has proven to be a goalscoring machine this season at Manchester City, scoring 35 goals in the Premier League alone!
Carlo Ancelotti understood the game to perfection, purposely granting Guardiola his desired possession in order to focus on counter-attacks.
During the first half, Courtious made some remarkable saves that kept Manchester City at bay.
The message was clear from Pep, keep moving the ball around the pitch until you find an opening, and then drill it!
In the midst of Manchester City's dominance, Vini Jr broke loose in a lightning-fast counterattack down the left wing.
He dribbled his way to the edge of the box and then drilled a shot to the top right corner. Nothing Ederson could do to stop that missile.
Los 'Blancos' led the fixture up until minute 67, when Kevin De Bruyne made his way to the edge of the Real Madrid box and drilled a long-distance shot past Courteous. The game was level again, with twenty minutes to go!
Manchester City kept their high press while slightly dropping their defensive lines in the back. The game entered a stage of hysteria where the ball kept going back and forth, only being interrupted by fouls and bookings.
During the final ten minutes of the game, "total football" kicked in. Both teams maxed out their potential, moving the ball back and forth with the utmost energy.
Strong tackles, shirts pulled, and high knees were the only alternatives to stop dangerous attacks on both sides. A couple of heated arguments between Vini Jr and Manchester City's defense left Bernabeu asking for more.
Like many big football games, this game certainly didn't lack any controversy! Portuguese referee, Artur Dias, is under some criticism for disregarding two possible handball penalties and disproportionally penalizing Real Madrid players.
Another magical night at the Santiago Bernabeu, riddled with passion and determination. Both teams drew 1-1 but overall, it was a fantastic game.
Both teams competed to the best of their potential, with great respect. Football fans around the world can't wait for the second leg!
The second leg will be played at the Etihad Stadium on May 17th. Tune in and enjoy some world-class football!