Real Madrid squared off against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium earlier this evening, aiming to clinch victory in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League last-16 tie. Los Blancos started the match brightly and gained a numerical advantage in the 20th minute when Bernardo Silva received a red card. Vinicius Junior converted a penalty just two minutes later to put Madrid ahead. However, Erling Haaland equalized for the home side in the 41st minute, leaving the teams level at 1-1 at halftime.
Vinicius Junior scored the decisive goal in injury time, leading Álvaro Arbeloa’s team to a narrow 2-1 victory on the night, resulting in a 5-1 aggregate win.
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Let’s review the performances of each Real Madrid player during the match against Manchester City.
He played solidly defensively but couldn’t maintain a clean sheet in the first half.
RB: Trent Alexander-Arnold – 7/10
Alexander-Arnold was involved with some strong tackles and created a decent opportunity going forward.
CB: Antonio Rudiger – 5.5/10
He made two vital clearances in his half but struggled defensively throughout.
CB: Dean Huijsen – 6.5/10
Huijsen effectively cleared danger when needed and was composed with his passing.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – MARCH 17: Antonio Ruediger of Real Madrid looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg match between Manchester City FC and Real Madrid CF at City of Manchester Stadium on March 17, 2026, in Manchester, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
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LB: Fran Garcia – 6.5/10
He handled threats well and was precise in his passing.
CM: Federico Valverde – 7/10
Valverde had a positive impact at both ends of the pitch.
CM: Aurelien Tchouameni – 8/10
Tchouameni anchored the midfield effectively and provided an assist.
CM: Thiago Pitarch Pinar – 6.5/10
He contributed defensively and made one notable attacking run.
RW: Arda Guler – 7/10
Guler had some bright moments but failed to score.
ST: Brahim Diaz – 7/10
He caused issues for the defenders but was unable to find the back of the net.
LW: Vinicius Junior – 7.5/10
He scored two goals but could have netted a hat-trick.
Substitutes:
GK: Andriy Lunin – 7/10
Lunin made several crucial saves in the second half.
ST: Kylian Mbappe – 6/10
He did not make a significant impact.
CM: Manuel Angel – 6.5/10