Manchester City Stun Real Madrid with 2-1 Comeback Victory at Bernabéu

City’s Dramatic Comeback Puts Pressure on Alonso

Manchester City came from behind to heap the pressure on Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso with a stunning 2-1 win at the Bernabeu on Wednesday. The match, played on December 10th, 2025, was a pivotal Champions League encounter that saw Pep Guardiola’s side revive their European campaign while leaving Real Madrid’s manager under intense scrutiny.

Match Details and Key Moments

Jude Bellingham fed Rodrygo out wide and the Brazilian advanced before drilling a low shot across Gianluigi Donnarumma into the far corner. Real Madrid appeared to be in control after Rodrygo’s 28th-minute opener, but City responded emphatically before halftime. Both goals came in the final 10 minutes of the first half — Haaland’s from the penalty spot — as City replied to Rodrygo’s 28th-minute opener in an exhilarating contest. Erling Haaland — with his 51st goal from his 50th Champions League start — and Nico O’Reilly were on target as Pep Guardiola’s side got their European campaign back on track following last month’s shock loss to Bayer Leverkusen.

Implications for Both Sides

The result has significant implications for both clubs’ Champions League campaigns. Real are fifth in the Champions League standings on 12 points, three behind leaders Arsenal. City are ninth on 10 points, chasing a top-eight finish that would secure direct qualification to the last 16. For Real Madrid, Coming after Saturday’s dismal loss to Celta Vigo, it was a second defeat in quick succession for Madrid and a potentially decisive blow for under-fire manager Alonso’s job.

This victory provides crucial breathing space for Manchester City as they battle to secure automatic qualification to the knockout stages. For Real Madrid and Xabi Alonso, the pressure intensifies as they face growing questions about their ability to compete at the highest level this season.