Last season, Real Madrid defeated Man City 3-2 and 3-1 in both play-off matches. However, almost one year later, the record champions seemed a shadow of their former selves. Rodrygo's opening goal proved insufficient to prevent a home defeat.

Real Madrid started the match asserting their dominance. The absence of Kylian Mbappe, their top scorer this season, did not immediately hinder Xabi Alonso's side. In the 28th minute, Rodrygo broke free on the right edge of the penalty area and struck a low shot into the far corner, past goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, to open the scoring.

Rodrygo opened the scoring in Real's 1-2 loss to Man City in the sixth Champions League group stage match on the evening of 10/12. Photo: AS

Despite their strong start, Real Madrid's defense proved insufficient to hold their lead. The absences of Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, Dean Huijsen, and David Alaba quickly exposed vulnerabilities. Man City capitalized, taking only 7 minutes to equalize through Nico O'Reilly's rebound shot.

Losing their lead so early seemed to shake Real Madrid's confidence, mirroring their four draws and losses in the last five La Liga rounds. They not only relinquished control of the midfield but also allowed Man City to seize crucial moments.

In the 40th minute, Antonio Rudiger committed a foul, pulling Erling Haaland's shirt to prevent him from heading inside the box. The Norwegian striker then converted the ensuing penalty, securing Man City's 2-1 victory. Had goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois not made a brilliant double save in the 45+3 minute from Haaland and Phil Foden, Real Madrid could have conceded a third goal.

Nico O'Reilly equalized in Real's 1-2 loss to Man City in the sixth Champions League group stage match on the evening of 10/12. Photo: AS

Both teams continued to contest fiercely after the break. Real Madrid generated numerous opportunities, but the absence of a clinical finisher like Mbappe began to tell. In the 51st minute, Jude Bellingham chipped the ball over the bar when through on goal against Donnarumma. Endrick, in a rare appearance under manager Alonso, also disappointed, hitting the crossbar with a header in the 85th minute.

Conversely, Man City also frequently threatened Real Madrid's goal. Had Courtois not expertly denied Haaland's powerful effort and Jeremy Doku's curling shot, the scoreline could have extended to 3-1 in favor of the English side.

In the final stages, Man City deliberately slowed the pace and maintained firm possession. This strategy effectively thwarted Real Madrid's attempts to equalize, despite their intense pressure. The victory propelled Man City to 13 points after six matches, placing them fourth, trailing only Arsenal, Bayern, and PSG. Should Pep Guardiola's side continue their strong form against Bodo/Glimt and Galatasaray in their remaining two fixtures, they are likely to secure direct qualification to the round of 16.

Meanwhile, with 12 points, Real Madrid dropped from fifth to seventh place. They must rediscover their form in their upcoming two matches against Monaco and Benfica to secure a spot within the top 8.

Thanh Quy