The first leg of the UEFA Champions League tie between Real Madrid and Manchester City turned out to be a high-scoring affair as the match ended in a 3-3 draw.
Both sides’ defensive lines were not up to the mark, although Antonio Rudiger shone once again as he was at his best to keep Erling Haaland quiet throughout the game.
Aurelien Tchouameni will miss the 2nd leg due to an accumulation of yellow cards. Moreover, Jude Bellingham did not have the best of games while the Brazilian duo of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo led from the front.
Here is how Real Madrid players fared in the 3-3 draw.
Player ratings
Andriy Lunin: 6.0
The Ukrainian had a below-average performance as he let in a preventable 1st goal. Other than that, he made a few saves and did well to surpass City’s press when the ball went back to him.
Dani Carvajal: 7.0
The captain put in a decent performance, especially as he contained Jack Grealish’s threat. Put in some great long balls and made well-timed attacking runs.
Aurelien Tchouameni: 6.5
Received a yellow card in no time and, as a result, is suspended for the 2nd leg. But, the Frenchman put on a good defensive display along with Rudiger; however, he could have closed down Gvardiol to prevent the third goal.
Antonio Rudiger: 8.0
The German – like last year – was able to keep Haaland quiet for the entire game. Despite conceding 3 goals, he was the standout performer in defense.
Ferland Mendy: 7.5
One of his best performances of the season for Real Madrid. Made some important tackles, won duels, and prevented dangerous attacks from his flank. He showed why Ancelotti wants him to stay next year as well.
Eduardo Camavinga: 7.5
It was his shot that deflected off Ruben Dias and ended up in the back of the net. Did not make any mistakes whatsoever and broke City’s passing lanes at times.
Toni Kroos: 7.0
Controlled the game like only he could. Looked calm on the ball despite City’s relentless press. This performance led to Pep Guardiola praising the German in the post-match press conference.
Fede Valverde: 7.5
Scored just his 2nd goal of the season and it could not have come at a better occasion. As always, was a machine in the midfield and covered for Carvajal at right-back when the defender went up front.
Jude Bellingham: 6.5
Not the Real Madrid midfielder’s best performance of the season. Showed a few glimpses of what he is capable of, and could have been better. Gladly, did not end up receiving a yellow card which would have gotten him suspended for the second leg.
Rodrygo: 8.0
The Brazilian just has a habit of scoring in the Champions League and also against Manchester City. Made a brilliant run after Vinicius’ ball and was able to slot it home. Him and his Brazilian partner swapped positions throughout the night. Continued his goal-scoring form from the past two games.
Vinicius Junior: 8.0
Two assists and just proving his title of being a big game player. Stepped up again. Him and Rodrygo sometimes were at the same flank and he sometimes ended up on the right too. Found Rodrygo and Valverde perfectly with accurate deliveries. Was also close to scoring a goal but just went over the bar.
Substitutes
Luka Modric: 7.5
Surprising to note that he may be retiring at the end of the season. The Croatian dictated the play as soon as he came on and was the reason behind Real Madrid’s 3rd goal of the night. Did not put a foot wrong in his 18-minute cameo.
Brahim Díaz: 6.0
Came on along with Modrić. Although did not have the same impact as the Croatian, but made a few good dribbles and did not hesitate in taking on City’s players.
Joselu: N/A
Was substituted for Viní in the 86th minute. Not enough time to warrant a rating.
