How the pundits reacted to epic showdown
GARY LINEKER
ONE of the most extraordinary and thrilling two-legged Champions League games in the history of the competition. City were clearly the better side and unlucky to lose, but this Real Madrid side has immense character and somehow keep finding something from somewhere. Football, eh!
RIO FERDINAND
I FELT on edge for Man City. I wanted an all-English final! As an Englishman, you wanted that for the best quality of football, the spectacle, the end of season finale. Never doubt the quality in this Real team. Heart, desire, character. They’ve been here, they’ve seen it so many times. This is going to be some final. We have been treated to some unreal football. Real have been comfortable suffering against PSG and Chelsea. They never for one minute panicked. The stadium took the life out of City. You saw the weight of history, the size of the stadium... listen to these guys! Listen to the stadium! This is the best tournament in football. Carlo Ancelotti, he has to be in the mix as the greatest manager ever.
JOLEON LESCOTT
I’M GUTTED from a City point of view but the belief Real have is remarkable. As players you will use this feeling as a positive for the Premier League. There’s a quick turnaround and they’ll have to lift themselves but they will be devastated. The atmosphere is monumental for Real. I honestly don’t know how that result happened.
STEVE McMANAMAN
I’VE never seen anything like that. City had it in the palm of their hands, they were cruising through. Real continue to surprise us. I never get lost for words but I was dumbstruck up there in the commentary box. The second goal was amazing. To then go on and win it... it just beggars belief. For them to do it tonight, with all the experienced players off the field, it’s an incredible feat. I think Liverpool would have preferred to face Madrid. If they do beat Liverpool, arguably it will be the greatest victory ever — PSG, Chelsea, Man City and then Liverpool! Once you went to extra time, you thought Madrid would go on and win it. Yes they’ve had troubles in the past but this was the most brutal way to go out for City. The job Ancelotti’s done is exceptional. He’s ice-cool, quiet, never rains praise on himself, only his players. He’s an absolute superstar.