Madrid: Manchester City produced a strong comeback to defeat Real Madrid 2–1 at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday, intensifying the uncertainty around head coach Xabi Alonso’s future.
Real Madrid, missing injured superstar Kylian Mbappé, started brightly and took the lead through Rodrygo Goes. But goals from Nico O’Reilly and an Erling Haaland penalty turned the match in City’s favour before half-time, handing Pep Guardiola’s side all three Champions League league-phase points.
Spanish outlets reported before kick-off that Alonso could be dismissed if Madrid suffered a defeat, and although his team delivered an energetic display, it was not enough to calm the growing frustration inside the Bernabéu.
The 15-time European champions have now secured only two wins in their last eight matches across competitions, leaving them in a tense battle to secure a top-eight finish in the Champions League league phase.
“Until the moment we scored, they were much better,” Guardiola admitted after the match. “We’ve played far better here and not won, so we know how tough it is.”
Madrid begin well but City turn the tide
Alonso opted not to risk Mbappé due to knee discomfort, giving 21-year-old Gonzalo García a rare start in attack. The decision seemed justified early on as Madrid controlled the tempo, with Vinícius Júnior heavily involved and Rodrygo ending his 33-match goal drought in the 28th minute after combining with Jude Bellingham on a rapid counterattack.
Rodrygo’s low finish past Gianluigi Donnarumma was his fifth career goal against Manchester City, underscoring his history as a big-game performer. He celebrated with Alonso on the touchline, later stating the gesture was intentional.
“It’s a difficult moment for us and for the coach,” Rodrygo said. “We wanted to show that we’re all together and fighting.”
But a costly mistake from goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois shifted momentum. The Belgian failed to hold Josko Gvardiol’s header, allowing O’Reilly to pounce in the 35th minute to level the score.
City completed the turnaround moments later when Antonio Rüdiger brought down Haaland in the box. The Norwegian coolly converted the penalty, giving Guardiola’s men a 2–1 lead at the break.
Madrid run out of ideas as pressure grows on Alonso
Courtois later redeemed himself with important saves against Haaland, Rayan Cherki and Jeremy Doku, but Madrid’s attack faltered in the second half. Alonso introduced Endrick late in the match, and the teenager nearly equalised, clipping the crossbar with five minutes remaining.
Despite the late push, Madrid lacked creativity and precision in the closing stages, further fueling speculation that the club could seek a managerial change soon.
“The dressing room is with Xabi Alonso,” defender Raúl Asencio insisted post-match. His support highlights the internal unity but may not be enough to sway club president Florentino Pérez, who faces a critical decision with the team struggling for form.
