WED, MAY. 10 2023-theGBJournal|It was a scintillating match Tuesday at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, with both teams creating good opportunities and two stunning goals from two big-game players, Kevin De Bruyne and Vincius.
Real Madrid vs. Manchester City lived up to the hype.
The match started with Manchester City dominating play, keeping possession and creating chances. They pegged Madrid back in the early stages until the 35minute when Camavinga sprinted through City’s midfield line and set up VinÃcius for stunning finish at the edge of the box.
The goal was Madrid’s first and only shot on target in the first half. The second half started with City pressing forward again, piling pressure on Madrid but Madrid kept their cool and took charge of the game later on, creating lots of chances but failing to finish it up.
Things took another turn when Kevin De Bruyne (KDB) struck at the 66th minute from outside the box to level the game.
Thibaut Courtois was called to make multiple saves all through the game while Ederson was tested a couple of times in the second half.
It’s all to play for next week at the Etihad. Madrid will be looking to reach to the finals to win a record 15 champions league title while City will be hoping they can reach the finals for a second time in their history and this time around finish the job.
KDB has been a very important player for City; he turns up when it matters, he is the third box of the team, his goal was out of nothing, and if City are to win the treble, he is the man to be at the forefront.
Vini vs. Walker
Kyle Walker was able to manage Vini, and despite Vini breaking his waist several times, Walker proved a good fit.
Kyle Walker won more duels (8), made more tackles (6), and made more clearances (5) than any other Man City player against Real Madrid.
And he wasn’t dribbled past once.
Vini is growing to be Madrid’s main man. He is creative, goals and assists are something attackers dream of, he has a long time ahead of him. How far can he go individually is what Madrid and rival fans will be asking.
Camavinga was bought as Kroos heir but he is turning into Marcelo’s heir. He has made the left back position his own. Next season will be a dilemma for Madrid should they sign a left back or should they allow him to groom them?
Rudiger and Alaba shut down the poster boy, Haaland. Rudiger was winning one-on-one duels, they also limited his potency, and they passed the first half of the test.
Pep won’t be in a hurry to forget it was substitutions that made Madrid get the victory back. He avoided making a sub to spoil the rhythm of the game. Bernardo and Grealish were key components of the game.
Their ability to track and help the full backs was vital in restricting Madrid wingers. Pep sacrificed his attacking game plan for more cohesion and a team defensive set-up.
Akanji has earned the reputation of being one of City’s best signings. He had a good game against Rodrigo.
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