Bellingham stuns Etihad! Real Madrid’s last-gasp winner sink Man. City
Madrid stun City
Published By: Kazeem Ugbodaga
By Kazeem Ugbodaga
In a pulsating Champions League showdown at the Etihad Stadium, Real Madrid pulled off an electrifying 3-2 victory over Manchester City in the first leg of their playoff clash, with Jude Bellingham delivering the knockout blow in the dying moments of stoppage time.
The match was an enthralling battle of giants, with City drawing first blood in the 19th minute through Erling Haaland, whose thunderous volley left Thibaut Courtois with no chance.
But Real Madrid, known for their resilience on the grandest stage, fought back with a dazzling display of attacking football.
Kylian Mbappé, making his presence felt on the European stage once again, drew the visitors level in the 60th minute with a clinical finish that silenced the home crowd.
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However, City’s relentless attack earned them a penalty in the 80th minute, and Haaland coolly converted, restoring the lead for Pep Guardiola’s men.
Yet, just when City thought they had done enough, Madrid’s fighting spirit kicked into overdrive. Substitute Brahim Diaz pounced on a rebound in the 86th minute, rifling the ball into the bottom corner to make it 2-2, sending shockwaves through the stadium.
Then, in the second minute of stoppage time, came the moment of magic. Vinícius Junior, showing incredible vision, threaded a perfect pass to Bellingham, who displayed nerves of steel to slot home the winner from close range.
The Madrid bench erupted as Carlo Ancelotti’s side celebrated a sensational comeback, leaving Manchester City stunned.
As the referee blew the final whistle, Madrid’s dramatic late show left City with a mountain to climb in the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu.
