Manchester City saw their hopes of a dramatic comeback against Real Madrid effectively ended just 22 minutes into the match when Bernardo Silva was sent off for handball, allowing Vinicius Junior to convert the penalty and extend Real Madrid’s lead to four goals on aggregate.
City had started strongly, putting pressure on the visitors, but a swift Real Madrid counter saw Vinicius strike the post. Silva’s hand blocked the rebound, resulting in his first-ever red card in 582 club appearances.
Despite the setback, Manchester City continued to push. Thibaut Courtois was called into action with several key saves, while Vinicius missed a golden chance in the first half, side-footing wide with only Gianluigi Donnarumma to beat.
Erling Haaland pulled one back for City – his first goal since 11 February – but was replaced by Omar Marmoush in the 56th minute, with Pep Guardiola likely preserving him for the upcoming EFL Cup final.
Playing 70 minutes with ten men proved a huge disadvantage, and Real Madrid sealed the victory when Vinicius struck again in second-half stoppage time, putting the tie beyond City’s reach.
