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Rabat – Manchester City earned a crucial Champions League win at the Santiago Bernabeu, beating Real Madrid 2-1 to move ahead in the group standings.
The result strengthens City’s push toward the last 16 and adds more pressure on Madrid coach Xabi Alonso, who is still trying to steady his team after a difficult run.
Madrid struck first through Rodrygo, who ended a long scoring drought by finishing low past Gianluigi Donnarumma, giving the home crowd early hope.
🏁 FP: @RealMadrid 1-2 @ManCityES
⚽ 28′ @RodrygoGoes
⚽ 35′ O’Reilly
⚽ 43′ Haaland (p.) pic.twitter.com/4lHtC0ka4c— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) December 10, 2025
Man City responded quickly. Young midfielder Nico O’Reilly equalized from close range after a corner, then won a penalty when Erling Haaland was brought down by Antonio Rüdiger. Haaland converted calmly, and his goal proved decisive.
City’s performance was not flawless. Phil Foden had a quiet night, and both goals came from Madrid mistakes. Yet winning at the Bernabeu is always significant.
Pep Guardiola’s side showed defensive stability, limiting Madrid’s attack, and midfield control through Nico Gonzalez, whose simple but effective play kept City in charge.
On the wings, O’Reilly and Jeremy Doku caused problems, while Rayan Cherki added flair and energy, showing City’s depth and balance.
With group games against Bodo/Glimt and Galatasaray still to come, City look well placed to reach the knockout rounds and remain strong contenders for the trophy.
For Madrid, the defeat comes at a tense moment. Alonso’s future has been questioned after a poor league loss to Celta Vigo, and club president Florentino Perez has voiced frustration.
Against City, however, Madrid showed more fight and intensity, with the Bernabeu crowd backing the team. Rodrygo was their standout performer, scoring and creating chances, though Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr. missed opportunities.
Madrid were weakened by injuries, missing eight players, including key defenders and top scorer Kylian Mbappe, who was on the bench but unavailable.
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois kept the scoreline close with several saves. Alonso tried to push for an equalizer with attacking changes, but City held firm.
After the match, Alonso defended his players, saying they gave full effort and created chances but lacked the finishing touch. He admitted the team’s fragile moment, and missing personnel made it easier for City to turn the game.
