Kevin De Bruyne led by example as Manchester City came from behind to claim a deserved win over Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 encounter.
City edged the first half, with Zinedine Zidane’s side seemingly flummoxed by Guardiola’s latest tactical offering,
something of a 4-2-4-0 formation.
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However, neither side could find the breakthrough with both goalkeepers, Thibaut Courtois and Ederson, each making a fine stop to deny Jesus and Karim Benzema respectively.
Isco then opened the scoring in the second half after some brilliant work from vinicius.
Madrid then dominated much of the game but failed to take their chances.
And then De Bruyne took over.
First the Belgian charged into the penalty area, held off challenges, pivoted onto his right foot and dropped in a delicious cross from which Jesus headed home.
Real Madrida appealeda push on Sergio Ramos, but the goal stood.
Five minutes later, De Bruyne put City ahead, coolly converting from the penalty spot after Dani Carvajal’s
needless challenge on Raheem Sterling brought on at 1-0 down to put City in front.
Sergio Ramos saw red shortly after for a foul on Jesus, meaning he won’t be available for the second leg at the
Etihad.