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Man City Downs Real Madrid, Increasing Pressure on Manager Xabi Alonso

Madrid, Spain – Real Madrid suffered a 2-1 home defeat against Manchester City in a Champions League clash, a result that intensifies the scrutiny on manager Xabi Alonso. Despite taking the lead through Rodrygo in the 28th minute, defensive errors proved costly for Los Blancos.

The game was filled with VAR controversy, beginning early when Vinicius Jr. was denied a penalty. City responded with Nico O’Reilly capitalizing on a Thibaut Courtois fumble following a corner to equalize. A penalty, awarded after VAR review for a foul by Antonio Rudiger on Erling Haaland, allowed the Norwegian striker to secure the lead for City.

Real Madrid had chances to level the score in the second half, with Jude Bellingham missing a clear opportunity. Vinicius Jr. and substitute Endrick also came close, but ultimately failed to convert.

While GOAL.com gave high marks to Rodrygo and Alvaro Carreras, Courtois and Rudiger were criticised for their mistakes which contributed to the loss. The defeat marks the second consecutive loss for Real Madrid, leaving Alonso’s future uncertain.

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