In a thrilling encounter between Real Madrid and Manchester City Champions League 2023 Semi-Finals at Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday, the match ended in a 1-1 draw. Both teams had their chances, and they put up a strong defense to prevent their opponent from scoring. The intense match saw both goals scored from outside the box with Vinicius Junior opening the scoring for Madrid in the 36th minute, followed by Kevin De Bruyne’s equalizer for City in the 67th minute.
First Half Action
Real Madrid’s shot-stopper Thibaut Courtois made some brilliant saves as Manchester City upped the tempo and created some good chances. Madrid had some good chances but was not able to capitalize on them. In the 36th minute, Vinicius Jr fired a shot from outside the box into the City net, giving Madrid the lead.
Second Half Action
In the second half, it was Madrid that initially tried to dominate on the field, but City created more chances by attacking the Real goal and coming close to scoring the equalizer on several occasions. In the 67th minute, City midfielder De Bruyne shot the ball outside the penalty box, and the ball flew into the back of the Madrid goal, equalizing the score.
Final Outcome
Both teams had equal chances to take the lead, but both goalkeepers made some important saves to keep the score level. Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti said, “Maybe we played a bit better to deserve a victory, but it’s a series that will be even until the last minute.” City manager Pep Guardiola said, “It was an even match. They scored when we were better and we equalised when they were better. It will all be decided in Manchester.” The second leg of the matchup will be played on Thursday, May 18 at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, where it will be decided who will advance into the UEFA Champions League final, which will be played in Istanbul.
