Antonio Rudiger secured Real Madrid’s semi-final spot with a decisive penalty in a tense 4-3 shootout victory against Manchester City. The thrilling match ended 4-4 on aggregate after extra time.
Bernardo Silva and Mateo Kovacic missed crucial penalties for City, giving Madrid the advantage. Rudiger’s successful spot-kick dashed City’s hopes of a consecutive treble.
The game unfolded with intensity, finishing 1-1 after Kevin De Bruyne’s goal nullified Rodrygo’s opener for Madrid. This result set up a semi-final clash between Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.
In the 12th minute, Rodrygo capitalized on Vinicius Jr’s assist to shock the Etihad Stadium. Despite City’s 68% possession, they struggled to convert chances, notably Erling Haaland’s missed opportunities.
De Bruyne equalized in the 76th minute, but City failed to capitalize further in extra time. Although Luka Modric missed Madrid’s opening penalty, Bellingham, Vazquez, and Nacho scored for Madrid, securing their victory in the shootout.
City now turn their focus to the FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea and the Premier League title race. They lead by two points with six games remaining.
In the other Champions League semi-final, Borussia Dortmund will face Paris St Germain.
