Manchester City battled to a stalemate in the first leg of their semi-final clash against Real Madrid in the Champions League. Despite enjoying several spells of dominance, the tie is still all to play for – here’s what the fans thought.
While certain players were given praise, such as Kevin De Bruyne and Kyle Walker, others were criticised for their below-par outings. Bernardo Silva, in particular, bore the brunt of the fans’ ire.
Additionally, Pep Guardiola’s managerial performance was questioned by the fans. He opted against making a substitution across the game, despite a number of players looking tired in the dying embers.
Why settle for a draw when it could’ve been an easy win .
— Onasis Kobby (@Great_Ona) May 9, 2023
pep needs to make subs god sake
— vee⁹ (@haalandisms) May 9, 2023
Great result. Deciding game at home, I have faith.
Alvarez is needed in Haaland's spot next time, he's being marked too much and we need someone who's agile enough to lose them.
Walker was amazing, my MOTM.
— Autumn 🍂 (@_AutumnLeaff) May 9, 2023
You can't tell me pep played a whole full 90 semis without making a sub
— Mordecai (@ilysmsdtmfg) May 9, 2023
All I'm saying bernado needs to sit bench 2nd leg to whoever foden/alvarez/mahrez i didn't like his performance at all especially last quarter was dead asleep
— Fourmidables (@ManC47022763) May 9, 2023
Someone take out Gundogan, Bernardo and Grealish. And I don’t mean on dates
— ⚡️™️ (@MCFC_Liban) May 9, 2023
Ultimately, for all of City’s efforts, they could only manage a draw against Los Blancos. Vinicius Junior broke the deadlock with a rocket – however, his effort was soon usurped by a blockbuster from Kevin De Bruyne in the second half.
City enjoyed a larger share of possession, but Madrid broke ruthlessly and tested the Sky Blues’ defence on several occasions. Ederson made a brilliant save as the game drew to a close – it could prove to be a crucial stop in the grand scheme of things.
Guardiola’s men will play Madrid in the second leg at the Etihad Stadium on May 17 – can the Citizens progress to only the second Champions League final in their history?