Real Madrid continues to demonstrate its ability to come back in matches and put on a show. This time it was against a Manchester City that fought until the end at its home, the Etihad Stadium. The 2-1 victory in the first leg of the Champions League has left much to discuss, both on and off the field.
The match and Bellingham's heroics
Real Madrid has achieved a slight but valuable advantage ahead of the second leg next week at Santiago Bernabéu. Despite the difficulties and pressure from Manchester City, the white team showed its usual grit and demonstrated why it is one of the favorites in the European competition.
The hero of the night was, without a doubt, Jude Bellingham. The young Englishman, who has been one of the sensations of the season, scored the winning goal in the final minutes of the match. The play, which ended with the ball in the net, sealed a very important victory for Real Madrid.
Mbappé and Brahim Díaz also scored, but Bellingham's goal sealed the victory.
The celebration that made waves
After Bellingham's goal, many noticed a small but significant detail: his celebration. In a gesture that did not go unnoticed, the Real Madrid footballer imitated the famous celebration of Manchester City's forward, Erling Haaland.
Bellingham, upon scoring, raised his arms and pretended to walk quickly, mimicking the gesture Haaland often makes after scoring. Was it a simple coincidence or a provocation? The question remains, but the image certainly sparked much discussion on social media.
Provocation or just fun?
Bellingham's gesture has caused a great discussion among fans and experts. Some consider it was just a joke between teammates, while others interpret the action as a taunt toward Haaland.
Bellingham and Haaland were teammates at Borussia Dortmund, so their relationship might not be as tense as it seems. However, the context of such an important match can always add more emotion and drama to every action on the field. Especially with the Champions League at stake.
How is city preparing for Bernabéu?
With the score against them, Manchester City faces a difficult task in the next match. Pep Guardiola's team will need a historic comeback to keep dreaming of the final. Bernabéu is a stadium known for its pressure and the merengue crowd power, which makes the second leg an even greater challenge for City.