Manchester City Secure Historic Win at Bernabéu but Guardiola Voices Concerns
Manchester City clinched a 2-1 victory against Real Madrid at the Bernabéu during a Champions League group stage match. Rodrygo initially gave Madrid the lead, but Nico O'Reilly equalised with a brave effort, and Erling Haaland secured the win from a penalty. The win marked City's second ever at the Bernabéu, the first being in the 2019-20 Champions League last-16 first leg.
The result enhances City's prospects of finishing in the top eight of their group, with four points required from their upcoming fixtures against Bodø/Glimt away and Galatasaray at home in January.
Despite the win, manager Pep Guardiola expressed concerns about the team's performance, particularly criticising the opening 30 minutes. He noted that City lacked control, were slow to react upon losing possession, and were vulnerable to Madrid’s counter-attacks led by Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham. Guardiola viewed the November 25 loss to Leverkusen and the team's timidity as a turning point, prompting a shift towards a more direct strategy focused on Haaland and emphasizing a longer-term development for the young squad.
The match also highlighted the club's youthful talent. O'Reilly’s courage stood out, as did performances by Rayan Cherki and Jérémy Doku, with Guardiola describing Doku as outstanding. Defender Josko Gvardiol remarked that although there was an early possession lapse, the victory proved City could defeat any team and might initiate a winning streak.
Real Madrid continued to press in the closing stages, with Endrick nearly equalising but being denied by a crossbar. The match underscores Manchester City's potential as they navigate the challenges of this Champions League campaign.
