Real Madrid edges Manchester City 3-2 in UCL thriller

Real Madrid staged a dramatic comeback to defeat Manchester City 3-2 in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League play-off tie at the Etihad Stadium. The match saw Erling Haaland score twice for City, including a penalty, but Kylian Mbappé and Brahim Diaz equalized for Madrid, with Jude Bellingham netting a stoppage-time winner. This victory positions Madrid as strong favorites heading into the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu on February 19. Both teams have met in the knockout rounds for four consecutive seasons, with past winners going on to lift the trophy. The match highlighted Madrid's resilience, as they overcame two different deficits to clinch the win. Vinícius Júnior was noted for his key contributions, assisting both the equalizer and the winning goal.