Real Madrid advances to Champions League semifinals by overcoming Manchester City in penalty shootout

Real Madrid secured their spot in the Champions League semifinals after a thrilling penalty shootout victory over Manchester City on Wednesday. Defender Antonio Rüdiger became the hero for Real Madrid, scoring the winning penalty by striking it into the bottom-left corner. The team celebrated by piling on top of him in excitement.

The thrilling tie featuring eight goals across the two games came to an end with the 14-time European champion triumphing 4-3 on penalties.

According to Los Blancos midfielder Federico Valverde, "Madrid always deliver, that’s part of football." He acknowledged that the opposition came into the game stronger, playing better football than them, and were considered as favorites.

After a thrilling first leg between the two teams ended 3-3 in Madrid, City was fancied to advance in what turned out to be a night of high drama at the Etihad Stadium.

"But we are Madrid and we dug in, defended well and fought hard. That’s how we won the game."

Real gained the upper hand in the tie following Rodyrgo’s well-worked goal in the 12th minute.

Antonio Rüdiger sends his penalty past Ederson.

Antonio Rüdiger sends his penalty past Ederson.

Martin Rickett/PA

A fantastic display of skill by Jude Bellingham helped create the opportunity for the goal. Valverde and Vinícius Jr. worked together to deliver a cross to Rodrygo, who managed to score on his second try after his initial shot was blocked by City's goalkeeper Ederson.

City fought hard to level the score, with Erling Haaland hitting the crossbar with a header shortly after. Kevin De Bruyne and Jack Grealish also came close to scoring for City.

Real was content to sit back and defend, allowing the home side to keep pressing in the second half. Their efforts paid off when De Bruyne scored a brilliant goal from Doku's cross into the box.

Despite having more chances to secure the win, De Bruyne and Man City were unable to break through Real's defense. The game ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving the aggregate score tied at 4-4 after extra-time.

In the penalty shootout, Luka Modrić’s first attempt was saved by Ederson but City’s advantage disappeared when Bernardo Silva struck his effort straight at a static Andriy Lunin. The Real goalkeeper then saved Mateo Kovačić’s penalty to swing the contest in his side’s favor. Lucas Vázquez, Phil Foden, Nacho, and Ederson all scored with their attempts before Rüdiger stepped up and sent Real into the semifinals.

Real Madrid will play Bayern Munich in the Champions League final four.

Real Madrid will play Bayern Munich in the Champions League final four.

Naomi Baker/Getty Images

“We showed the attitude and commitment demanded by this jersey,” manager Carlo Ancelotti said after the game.

"This competition is truly special to us, and we always strive to surprise people with what we deliver. Despite the doubts from everyone, we have persevered and proved that we are still here."

For City, the opportunity to win a treble - the Champions League, Premier League, and FA Cup - has diminished, making the upcoming FA Cup semifinal against Chelsea even more significant.

City manager Pep Guardiola congratulated Real Madrid for their solid defense and teamwork. He mentioned that his team did their best and have no regrets about their performance.

Guardiola emphasized the importance of trying to score more goals while conceding less in every game. He praised his team for their efforts both defensively and offensively, stating that they played exceptionally well in all areas. Despite their strong performance, they were unable to secure a victory. Guardiola accepted the outcome, acknowledging that sometimes things don't go as planned.

Editor's P/S:

The Champions League semifinal clash between Real Madrid and Manchester City lived up to its billing, delivering a thrilling spectacle that culminated in a tense penalty shootout. Real Madrid's resilience and unwavering belief shone through as they overcame a strong City side, proving once again why they are the kings of Europe.

The match showcased the tactical brilliance of both managers, with Carlo Ancelotti's defensive strategy proving effective in neutralizing City's attacking prowess. Pep Guardiola's team dominated possession and created numerous chances, but Real's solid defense and timely interventions thwarted their advances. The penalty shootout added an extra layer of drama, with Antonio Rüdiger's winning penalty sending the Madrid faithful into raptures. This victory serves as a testament to Real Madrid's never-say-die spirit and their ability to rise to the occasion even when faced with adversity.