Real Madrid marked their 500th Champions League appearance with a victory over city rivals Atletico Madrid in a tightly contested match.
This win puts Real Madrid in a favorable position for the second leg of their round of 16 Champions League tie.
Rodrygo provided Real Madrid with an ideal start, scoring a beautiful curling shot in the fourth minute.
Just when it seemed Real Madrid, under Carlo Ancelotti, were heading for a comfortable victory, Julian Alvarez, formerly of Manchester City, made his mark.
The Argentinian forward equalized in the 32nd minute with an impressive goal that matched the quality of Rodrygo’s opener.
Alvarez skillfully maneuvered past his marker before unleashing a shot from the edge of the box that curved inside the post.
Atletico Madrid began to exert more control over the game, aiming to disrupt Real Madrid’s celebratory night.
However, it was Real Madrid who found the net again, with another ex-Manchester City player scoring.
Brahim Díaz showcased exceptional footwork to evade two defenders before slotting the ball past Jan Oblak in the 55th minute.
These two goals might have given Pep Guardiola, back at home, food for thought.
Manchester City had previously been eliminated from the Champions League by Real Madrid.
Having already lost ground in the Premier League title race and been knocked out of other domestic cups, Manchester City’s season has been less successful than hoped.
For Manchester City, securing a top-four finish and potentially winning the FA Cup remain as targets to salvage silverware from a somewhat underwhelming season.
Fans online expressed their opinions on the match and player performances.
One fan questioned why Manchester City decided to sell one of the players.
Another suggested that Pep Guardiola should have played that player alongside Erling Haaland.
Real Madrid will aim to capitalize on their narrow lead in the second leg next week.
The return match will be a short trip, given the close proximity of the two Madrid clubs’ stadiums.
Real Madrid, with their history of 15 Champions League titles, are aiming for their 16th title this season.
In other Champions League action, Arsenal achieved a dominant 7-1 away victory against PSV, practically guaranteeing their place in the quarter-finals.
Borussia Dortmund and Lille played to a 1-1 draw, while Aston Villa defeated Club Brugge 3-1 in an earlier match.
