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Manchester City and Real Madrid Play to a 0-0 Draw in First Leg of Champions League Semifinal
Plenty of Early Clues, but Little Goalmouth Action So Far
The two sides will meet again in Manchester next week to decide who advances to the final
Manchester City and Real Madrid played to a 0-0 draw in the first leg of their Champions League semifinal on Tuesday. The match was a cagey affair, with both sides showing plenty of respect for each other's attacking threats.
City had the better of the chances in the first half, with Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden both going close. However, Real Madrid grew into the game in the second half and had a few chances of their own, with Karim Benzema and Vinicius Jr. both threatening.
In the end, neither side could find a breakthrough, and the match finished 0-0. The result leaves the tie finely poised ahead of the second leg in Manchester next week.
There were plenty of early clues to the shape and pattern of the game that both teams would want to see. City started with a high press, and they were able to force Real Madrid into some mistakes in the early stages. However, Real Madrid gradually adapted to City's pressure, and they were able to create a few chances of their own.
One of the most interesting aspects of the game was the battle between City's midfield and Real Madrid's defense. City's midfield trio of De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, and Ilkay Gundogan were excellent in possession, and they were able to create a number of chances for their team. However, Real Madrid's defense was well-organized and disciplined, and they were able to keep City's attackers at bay for the most part.
The second leg of the tie will be played at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester on Wednesday, May 4. City will be confident of winning at home, but Real Madrid have a good record in the Champions League, and they will be confident of causing an upset.
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