MAN CITY FIGHTBACK TO BEAT REAL

Madrid: Manchester City produced a stunning late fightback as goals from Gabriel Jesus and Kevin de Bruyne secured a memorable 2-1 win at Real Madrid to take control of their Champions League last-16 tie.

After a cagey first half, the hosts capitalised on a defensive mix-up between Rodri and

Nicolas Otamendi to take the lead as the impressive Vinicius Junior raced towards goal before neatly squaring for Isco to slot home. Sergio Ramos shot over as Real Madrid looked to double their advantage but City equalised 12 minutes before time when Jesus nodded in from close range. It was the least City deserved for what had been an impressive away performance by Pep Guardiola’s side and things got even better seven minutes from time when substitute Raheem Sterling was brought down inside the box and De Bruyne stepped home to confidently convert from the spot.

It got even worse for Real Madrid when they were reduced to 10 men with five minutes remaining. Ramos brought down

Jesus as he ran through on goal and the defender was shown a red card.

It was the first time City had beaten Real Madrid in the Champions League and means they are in the driving seat before the second leg at the Etihad on March 17.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola to BT Sport: “We tried to come here to win the game and we did. This is just the first part. If one team can overcome this situation, it’s this club.

“When we were better, we conceded a goal. When they were better, we scored a goal. That’s football. I remember the quarterfinal [against Liverpool] a few seasons ago at Anfield when we played incredibly well and they scored all their shots on target.”