Manchester City’s Champions League title defense came to a heartbreaking end at the Etihad Stadium as Real Madrid held their nerve to win a thrilling penalty shootout 4-3 after a 1-1 draw in extra time.
The match started with both teams cautious, but it was Real Madrid who struck first in the 11th minute. Vinicius Junior’s brilliant run and pass found Rodrygo, who tapped the ball into an empty net.
City dominated possession and created chances, but they struggled to find a way past the resolute Real Madrid defense. Haaland had a header cleared off the line, while Foden and Grealish were denied by goalkeeper Andriy Lunin.
In the second half, City continued to press, but it was De Bruyne who finally broke the deadlock in the 76th minute. A cross from the left was not properly cleared by Antonio Rudiger, and De Bruyne smashed it home from close range.
Just two minutes later, De Bruyne had a golden opportunity to put City ahead, but his shot was tipped over by Lunin.
Extra time saw City replace Haaland with Julian Alvarez, but it was Real Madrid who created the better chances. Doku came close to scoring from a pass from the left, but no one got a foot to it.
The match went to penalties, and Real Madrid held their nerve to win it. City missed two of their first three penalties, while Real Madrid converted all four of theirs.
The victory sends Real Madrid into the semi-finals, while City’s treble hopes are over.
