Manchester City came from behind to beat Real Madrid 2-1 in the Champions League, leaving coach Xabi Alonso’s future in serious doubt
MANCHESTER CITY secured a 2-1 comeback victory over Real Madrid at the Bernabeu on Wednesday, intensifying pressure on the Spanish club’s coach Xabi Alonso.
The hosts took an early lead through Rodrygo Goes despite the absence of injured superstar Kylian Mbappe.
City responded with an equaliser from Nico O’Reilly before Erling Haaland converted a first-half penalty to seal the win for Pep Guardiola’s side.
Spanish media reported before the match that a defeat would seal Alonso’s fate as Madrid coach.
The record 15-time Champions League winners have now won only two of their last eight matches across all competitions.
“Until the (first) goal we scored, they were much better,” admitted Guardiola after the match.
Alonso confirmed he left Mbappe on the bench due to knee discomfort, stating it would have been “a risk” to use him.
Fans whistled the team during the second half as Madrid struggled to find an equaliser.
“It’s normal, Madrid is a very demanding club, with demanding fans,” Rodrygo told Movistar.
The match started at lightning speed with Vinicius Junior heavily involved in the opening exchanges.
Madrid deservedly took the lead in the 28th minute when Rodrygo finished a swift counter-attack.
It was his first goal in 33 games, ending a barren and frustrating spell for the Brazilian forward.
Rodrygo embraced Alonso on the side of the pitch after scoring, later explaining his gesture.
“It’s a difficult moment for us and for (Alonso) as well,” added Rodrygo.
City pulled level against the run of play after a mistake from goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
The Belgian could not hold Josko Gvardiol’s header, allowing O’Reilly to tap home the loose ball in the 35th minute.
Guardiola’s side went ahead before half-time after Antonio Rudiger conceded a penalty by wrestling Haaland to the ground.
The Norwegian striker sent Courtois the wrong way from the spot to complete the turnaround.
Courtois made amends with a fine double save to thwart Haaland and Rayan Cherki before the break.
Alonso turned to little-used youngster Endrick late in the game, with the 19-year-old clipping the crossbar in the final minutes.
Madrid defender Raul Asencio defended his coach after the match.
“The dressing room is with Xabi Alonso,” said Asencio, praising the team’s attitude. – AFP
