Man City 4-0 Real Madrid (agg 5-1): Bernardo Silva scores two as holders thrashed in Champions League semi-final
Manchester City‘s Dominant Display Secures 4-0 Victory Over Real Madrid, Setting up Final Clash with Inter Milan
Date: May 17, 2023
Venue: Etihad Stadium, Manchester
Manchester City produced a scintillating performance at the Etihad Stadium, overpowering Real Madrid 4-0 in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final. With an impressive 5-1 aggregate score, City secured their place in the final and will now face Inter Milan.
From the outset, it was evident that Manchester City meant business. Bernardo Silva, in particular, was in sublime form, scoring two goals in the first half. Real Madrid, the defending champions, found themselves overwhelmed by Pep Guardiola’s side, with their attempts to rally after the break falling short.
City’s recent magnificent form, which saw them go unbeaten in 23 games and win their last 15 matches at the Etihad Stadium, was too much for Real Madrid to handle. The gulf in class between the two teams was evident, and it is now Manchester City who will compete against Inter Milan in the Champions League final, scheduled for June 10 in Istanbul.
The match began with an electric atmosphere, as fans eagerly anticipated their side’s clash with European royalty. City, aiming to reach the final for the second time in three seasons, faced the challenge of taking on the 14-time champions of Europe.
The game quickly turned into a one-sided affair, with City asserting their dominance from the very beginning. Thibaut Courtois made impressive saves to deny City early on, but he couldn’t keep them at bay for long. Silva’s header after Ilkay Gundogan’s shot was blocked brought the scoreline in line with the gulf in performance.
While Real Madrid had a few isolated moments of brilliance, such as David Alaba’s shot tipped over by Ederson and Toni Kroos hitting the crossbar, they struggled to exert any control over the game. City, on the other hand, displayed slick and cohesive play, with Eder Militao inadvertently putting the ball into his own net from Kevin De Bruyne’s free-kick.
The fans in the stands erupted with Poznan-style celebrations as City secured their third goal, and their joy was further amplified when Julian Alvarez slotted in the fourth during stoppage time. This comprehensive victory showcased Manchester City’s potential to dominate in European football, possibly signaling a shift in power.
Having already triumphed over Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals, City has now dispatched another heavyweight contender, Real Madrid. As they prepare to face Inter Milan in the final, the likelihood of City completing an historic treble is on the rise, solidifying their status as a formidable force in European football.
As the journey to the Champions League final continues, Manchester City will look to maintain their exceptional form and claim the ultimate prize in Istanbul.
