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Madrid Shows Fight, Falls Short Against Cautious City

Madrid, Spain – Real Madrid, missing key players including Kylian Mbappé, displayed improved effort and tactical adjustments but ultimately fell 2-1 to a measured Manchester City at the Bernabéu. While the performance offered a glimmer of hope, the loss continues a worrying trend for the Spanish giants.

Despite eight absences, Madrid pressured City effectively in the first half. Vinicius Junior nearly won an early penalty, and Rodrygo narrowly missed a chance to score, but the absence of Mbappé – 57% of goal production – was felt acutely. Xabi Alonso surprised many by starting Rodrygo over Arda Güler, trusting in the Brazilian’s ability to rediscover his form.

Madrid’s revised tactics, employing a mid-block defense and focusing on counter-attacks, initially proved successful. Rodrygo capitalized on a swift break, slotting home the opening goal in the 27th minute. However, City leveled the score via rebound from Gvardiol in the 34th minute, possibly after a foul. Soon followed an unnecessary penalty conceded by Rüdiger against Haaland. Haaland converted, handing City the lead before halftime.

In the second half, City, with Doku proving a constant threat, managed the game with little trouble, despite a Madrid push to equalize. Substitutions, including a shift of Bellingham to center forward and the introduction of young Endrick, sparked some late pressure. Endrick even hit the crossbar with a header. Yet, the equalizer remained elusive.

While the Bernabéu faithful appreciated the team’s improved commitment, the defeat leaves questions lingering about Real Madrid’s true state – are they merely hibernating, or facing a deeper crisis? Meanwhile, City, despite the victory, didn’t appear overly dominant.

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