Manchester City produced a scintillating performance as they demolished Real Madrid 4-0 (5-1 on aggregate) at a packed Etihad Stadium, setting up a mouthwatering Champions League final clash with Inter Milan. The match was filled with moments of brilliance, and City’s victory signalled their opportunity to claim the elusive Champions League trophy.
Early on, Thibaut Courtois showcased his shot-stopping abilities with two exceptional saves to deny Erling Haaland’s headers. However, City broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute when Bernardo Silva unleashed a powerful strike past Courtois, courtesy of a sublime pass from Kevin De Bruyne. Real Madrid responded through Toni Kroos, whose long-range effort struck the crossbar, but it was Silva who extended City’s lead in the 37th minute. Ilkay Gundogan’s shot was saved by Courtois, allowing Silva to gracefully loop his header into the net.
The second half commenced with Ederson showcasing his skills, making an impressive save to deny David Alaba’s free kick. City continued their relentless attacking display, and in the 75th minute, Manuel Akanji’s header deflected off Eder Militao and found the back of the net, making it 3-0. The icing on the cake came in stoppage time when substitute Phil Foden played a magnificent pass to Julian Alvarez, who calmly slotted the ball into the corner, securing a comprehensive 4-0 victory for City.
This triumph marks Manchester City’s second-ever appearance in the Champions League final and presents an opportunity for Pep Guardiola to clinch the prestigious trophy for the first time since 2011. Having fallen short during his managerial stints at Barcelona and Bayern Munich, Guardiola’s City side now stands on the cusp of an historic treble. The upcoming final against Inter Milan in Istanbul on June 10 will be a defining moment for Guardiola and his team.
Throughout the match, Bernardo Silva emerged as a standout performer. His sublime finishes for both goals showcased his class and ability to beat Courtois, who had earlier pulled off impressive saves. Silva’s tireless work rate was evident as he relentlessly pressed and harried Real Madrid’s players, even without possession. His all-around excellence contributed significantly to City’s resounding victory.
As Manchester City approach the climax of an exceptional season, the prospect of securing the Champions League trophy alongside their potential Premier League and FA Cup triumphs is an enticing proposition. Guardiola and his players will be motivated to seize this golden opportunity and etch their names into footballing history.
Here’s how Twitter reacted to Manchester City’s win against Real Madrid in UCL semifinal:
That was clinical. Damn, the assists were absolutely on another level. Well deserved.
Watching the game as a foreigner in a proper pub in england was quite an experience. Even in London the local football fans cheered for Manchester City.
— Beyond Speed | Advanced Speed Preparation (@BeyondTopSpeed) May 17, 2023
Real Madrid fans: We let Barça win the league so we’ll focus more on the UCL.
Manchester city and Bernando Silva:? pic.twitter.com/KsWUxdO4Kc
— ??? ????? (@Gaviball__) May 17, 2023
This is the same Manchester City that Manchester United is going up against in the FA Cup finals? pic.twitter.com/D8t2LzYDmv
— ???? ???? (@254_icon) May 17, 2023
Chelsea defeated a Pep Guardiola led Manchester City for this Champions League Trophy.
Never forget. pic.twitter.com/V179yKfhUq
— ~ (@CFCdruw) May 17, 2023
Luka Modric highlights vs Manchester City pic.twitter.com/hB7YtJwmb1
— Moody (@NewValyrian) May 17, 2023
Manchester City are going to Istanbul, I’m so happy man. I love this beautiful club ? pic.twitter.com/i1ky0F2im8
— ?? (@ErlingRoIe) May 17, 2023
Man none of these Manchester city fans supported this team before the “Agueeeerrooo” moment
— Vusi.mz? (@YouDunnoVusi) May 17, 2023
Manchester United will play this Manchester City in the FA cup final. ???#RMAMCI pic.twitter.com/9tqjdCv2RP
— Kings Nations (@kungs_nations) May 17, 2023
Pep Quardiola to Manchester City fans pic.twitter.com/NJhUfmzJ0a
— SIR. ENIGMA ?? (@SirIsaji) May 18, 2023
