In a pulsating UEFA Champions League encounter at the iconic Bernabéu on December 10, 2025, Real Madrid were defeated 1-2 by Manchester City in front of a passionate Madridista crowd. The 15-time European champions looked to assert themselves early on against City, but ultimately saw a lead slip away as the visitors fought back to secure the win.
Real Madrid opened the scoring in the 28th minute when Rodrygo found the back of the net with a precise right-footed strike from the right side of the box. The Brazilian forward’s finish with his first goal of the season and his fifth against Manchester City underlined his knack for big moments against English opposition, making him the second-highest Real Madrid scorer in the history of this matchup.
The lead lasted just seven minutes. From a corner delivered into the box, Manchester City capitalized as Nico O’Reilly reacted quickest at the near post to slot home a close-range right-footed finish, bringing the visitors back on level terms.
City took the lead just before halftime when Erling Haaland stepped up to convert a penalty with a composed left-footed shot into the bottom right corner. The penalty was awarded after a foul on Haaland by a Real Madrid defender, giving the Norwegian star the chance to put City ahead.
Almost immediately after the next half started, Manchester City threatened to further extend their advantage. Rayan Cherki tested Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois with a right-footed effort from the right side of the box, but Courtois stood tall to make a central save and keep his side within touching distance.
As the clock ticked toward the final stages, Real Madrid pressed for an equalizer. Vinícius Júnior came close to drawing his side level, but his right-footed shot from the left side of the six-yard box sailed too high, despite being well positioned from an Arda Güler corner delivery.
Despite the defeat, Real Madrid showed resilience and attacking intent until the final whistle, keeping the tie alive with their late pressure. Manchester City, meanwhile, demonstrated composure and efficiency on a challenging night in Madrid, executing their game plan with precision. With the contest finely poised, both sides will take confidence into the next chapter of this heavyweight European clash.