Kevin De Bruyne scored a second-half equalizer to help Manchester City to a first-leg draw against Real Madrid in the Champions League. Find the Manchester City Player Ratings below.
Ederson – 8
Benzema’s second-half header and Tchouameni’s late thunderbolt were both stopped by key saves made by Benzema, who was unable to stop Vinicius’ powerful drive. Those saves could be forgotten in the wake of the two exquisite goals, but they will likely be significant as the clubs prepare to face off at the Etihad in what will essentially be a playoff.
Kyle Walker – 7
Was occasionally surprised by Vinicius but remained on the task in the face of one of Europe’s top forwards. His five tackles were the most of any player on the pitch. Vinicius could have wreaked havoc on the City backline if he hadn’t been there. He took great pleasure in his work, which was evident when he had a brief embrace with the Brazil forward at the end of the game.
Ruben Dias – 8
Produced a goal-saving block in the first half to prevent Benzema from tucking in Vinicius’ drilled cross. He may have backed off the Brazilian too far in order to achieve his objective. However, he put in a captain’s performance to assist City limit Real’s chances with a strong defensive performance.
John Stones – 8
Had a really solid opening and was heavily engaged in City’s offensive play early on. Also, excellent out-of-possession defense. The England defender frequently resembled a No. 10 because of how high up the pitch he was playing in his new hybrid midfield position. With additional responsibilities, he is prospering.
Manuel Akanji – 7
Struggled with Rodrygo at times, but offered City’s backline such calmness as they controlled the possession. has played better for City, but with Pep Guardiola’s new system, he becomes increasingly dependable.
Rodri – 8
On his return to Spain, he wasn’t phased by the momentous event and was directing a play for City while being a handful for Real. He showed his tenacity in the midfield struggle. The most reliable player for City delivered once more as he outplayed two of the top midfielders in the world by controlling the game for extended stretches.
Ilkay Gundogan – 7
Despite being heavily contested early on by Kroos and Rudiger, was able to find De Bruyne for his equalizer. Real prevented him from advancing into the tight spaces where he thrives by missing both of his shots. As City established itself in Real’s domain, the German midfielder hardly made a mistake while playing in the middle.
Kevin De Bruyne – 8
Had been prevented from forming a connection with Haaland for the majority of the game, but he took matters into his own hands by hitting a magnificent, long-range goal to tie the score for City. In their hour of need, City’s great player once more delivered. De Bruyne made sure to defeat his international teammate on the third attempt after Courtois blocked his first two attempts. He earned the highest of the Manchester City Player Ratings.
Bernardo Silva – 7
Early on, played a significant part for City as they seemed to target Camavinga, but he didn’t have much success against the improvised left-back. He continued to put in a lot of effort for his side, winning the ball back more times than anybody else on the field (seven), pushing and probing for a chance, and making more passes into the final third than anyone else.
Erling Haaland – 5
Had three shots, all of which Courtois easily stopped. The superstar’s involvement was kept to a minimal well by Real. Of all the players that got a start, he received the fewest touches (22), with both goalkeepers receiving more.
Jack Grealish – 7
Created more opportunities than any other City player while causing Carvajal pain. After some early theatrics by Carvajal, he ran himself into the ground in what ended up being a good tussle with the Real right-back. He passed the ball to Gundogan, contributing to City’s equalizer.
On Saturday at 8 p.m., Real Madrid will host Getafe in a La Liga match. The second leg of the Champions League semifinal between the European champions and Man City will take place at the Etihad on May 17 and is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Sunday’s Premier League encounter between City and Everton will be broadcast live at 2 p.m. and take place at Goodison Park prior to City’s rematch with Real.
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