Manchester City and Real Madrid have secured victory in the first meetings of the direct elimination phase in the Champions League. Coach Pep Guardiola's "Citizens" won with a convincing 3-1 result against FC Copenhagen in the transfer, while Real Madrid also won in the transfer against Leipzig, with the minimum result 1-0.
It was Kevin de Bruyne who put Manchester City ahead in the 10th minute of the challenge. However, a mistake by goalkeeper Ederson was well taken advantage of by the opposition, as Mattsson sent the ball into the net to level the pitch. However, the English were not demotivated, and found the advantage goal again, this time with Bernardo Silva, just before the end of the first half.
De Bruyne and Erling Haaland had further chances to score in the second half, but City's third goal did not come until late in stoppage time through Phil Foden. The English already have a comfortable lead for the second leg at the Etihad, which will be played on March 6.
Meanwhile in Germany, Real Madrid defeated Leipzig with the minimum score of 1-0. The hosts had some good chances to score, making it difficult for the Spaniards. However, it was Ancelotti's men who took the lead in the 48th minute of the match through Brahim Diaz. The Spaniard beat two defenders and sent the ball into the net with a spectacular arcing shot. The Madrilenians then had other chances to score, the clearest of which was that of Vinicus Jr., who hit the post. Goalkeeper Andriy Lunin also put in a fantastic performance as he managed to stop several shots on goal to preserve the lead for his team. Real will host Leipzig at the Bernabeu for the second leg on March 6.
