In a highly anticipated UEFA Champions League Semifinals first leg clash on Tuesday, Real Madrid were held to a 1-1 draw by Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabeu. In a closely contested match, Vinicius Junior found the back of the net in the first half, only for Kevin De Bruyne to equalize later on. With the return leg scheduled for next Wednesday at the Etihad, the tie remains in the balance.
In a thrilling match, City displayed their attacking prowess and took the game to Real Madrid with their direct style of play. Despite their best efforts, they were unable to breach the goal of Thibaut Courtois, who made crucial saves to deny Kevin De Bruyne and Rodri in the opening half. Vinicius proved to be the hero for the Whites in the 36th minute as he broke the deadlock with a stunning long-range strike that left Ederson helpless.
In a highly anticipated rematch of last year’s fixture, the reigning champions appeared to be on their way to another triumph after defeating City 3-1 previously. However, Kevin De Bruyne’s powerful strike in the second half brought the visitors level, leaving the outcome of the match uncertain.
Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni almost secured a 2-1 victory with a stunning shot towards the end of the game, but Manchester City’s goalkeeper Ederson managed to deflect it, resulting in a draw.
Amidst the jubilant celebrations of the City players, a stir arose on the touchline as Carlo Ancelotti and the Madrid staff engaged in a heated exchange with the officials. The manager of Madrid was issued a yellow card, leaving spectators wondering about the reason behind his intense reaction.
In a post-game interview, he disclosed that the ball had been off the pitch. The baffling decision of VAR not to check a statement made by technology has left many questioning the rationale behind it.
Tonight’s match was marred by the referee’s apparent lack of attention to several incidents, according to a source.
