According to BBC, Real Madrid clinched a spot in the Champions League semi-finals with a dramatic 4-3 penalty shootout victory over defending champions Manchester City, following a thrilling 4-4 aggregate draw in their quarter-final clash. Rodrygo's early strike provided the 14-time champions with an advantage at the Etihad Stadium, building on the 3-3 first-leg draw. Despite Kevin De Bruyne's late equalizer for City, neither side could break the deadlock in extra time. Ultimately, it was Real's midfielder, Antonio Rudiger, who stepped up to convert the decisive penalty, sealing their progression to the semi-finals where they will take on Bayern Munich.
Reflecting on the intense encounter, Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham shared his relief and exhaustion, highlighting the relentless pressure exerted by Manchester City throughout the match. He praised his team's resilience in standing up to City's relentless probing and credited their ability to maintain composure under pressure. Bellingham expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent Real Madrid, emphasizing the pride and honor of wearing the club's badge.
Bellingham also credited the team's manager, Carlo Ancelotti, for instilling a sense of freedom and confidence in the players, allowing them to play with spontaneity and flair. He described Ancelotti as a calming presence who encourages his players to express themselves on the pitch. Bellingham emphasized the importance of embracing the responsibility of playing for a prestigious club like Real Madrid, viewing it as a privilege rather than a burden.
Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham to TNT Sports: "It's relief. You put so much into the game. I've played against City before and they snatch it away from you. I was pretty much dead on my feet at the end.
"It's so difficult. They are continuously probing with the ball and move you around. Most teams would fall apart when City get on top of you but we stood up really well.
"I could never dream of how it started [his time at Real], just the feeling you get playing for the club - getting to put the badge on your chest. Long may it continue. Hopefully more nights like this.
"Our biggest strength is Carlo Ancelotti, he finds a way to let a lot of boys play with freedom. We're so off the cuff. As a man he fills you with calmness and confidence. I caught him yawning and he said to me, 'go out and excite me'.
"You have to see it as a responsibility not a pressure if you want to play for a team like Real Madrid.
"Today it came down to mentality.
"It's beautiful. My brother is here today, the first time he's seen me play for Madrid."