Manchester City have the advantage in their Champions League semi-final tie against Real Madrid, with a 4-3 win in the first leg. The Etihad Stadium was the site of an instant classic, as Pep Guardiola got the better of his old rivals by a one goal margin.
The Catalonian could not have asked for a better start, with Kevin De Bruyne scoring a diving header within the first 90 seconds of the game. Only ten minutes into the game, Gabriel Jesus doubled Manchester City’s lead with the incredible first touch and a composed finish inside the box to continue his great run of form.
Karim Benzema pulled one back for his side close to the half-hour mark with an impressive finish as the two sides went into the tunnel at 2-1.
Manchester City get the better of Real Madrid in the first leg encounter
Phil Foden and Vinicius Jr scored within two minutes of each other, early into the second half to add to the drama. The Brazilian went on a sensational solo run, leaving his compatriot Fernandinho for dead in the process as he scored his 18th of the season.
But, Bernardo Silva put his side back ahead with a well-taken goal after the referee played advantage. Karim Benzema scored his 40th goal of the season with a panenka penalty following a handball, to make it 4-3.
Guardiola will be fuming about the missed opportunities early in the game when Real Madrid were not defending very well. The tie is still very much alive, and Real Madrid could progress to the finals if they can pull off yet another comeback at their home stadium.
