The Champions League never fails to deliver drama, and last week’s clash between Real Madrid and Manchester City at the Etihad was no exception. In a back-and-forth battle that saw the reigning champions fall behind twice, Madrid once again proved why they own this competition, escaping England with a 3-2 victory.

Now, as the second leg approaches on Wednesday at the Bernabéu, Los Blancos hold the upper hand, but that could all change today.

How to Watch Real Madrid vs Manchester City:

• Date: Wednesday, February 19, 2025
• Time: 3:00 PM ET
• TV Channel: Paramount+
• Live Stream: Paramount+ (watch now)

It’s almost become second nature for Real Madrid to look like they’re on the ropes, only to swing back with knockout punches. Despite twice conceding to Pep Guardiola’s relentless City squad, Carlo Ancelotti’s men found a way to not only equalize but snatch a late winner, sending them back to Spain in pole position.

The win extends Madrid’s extraordinary track record in high-stakes Champions League matches. Time and time again, they show that when the floodlights shine the brightest, they thrive.

WATCH: Real Madrid vs Manchester City live on Paramount+

With a slight edge in the scoreline, Madrid will now welcome City to the Bernabéu, a stadium where magical European nights are the norm. But while history favors the 14-time champions, Guardiola’s City—last year’s UCL winners—are far from out of this.

The Premier League giants will be eager to prove that the tie is far from settled, especially with their attacking firepower led by Erling Haaland, who will not start today and only fit for a bench role, Kevin De Bruyne, and Phil Foden. They’ll need to be sharper in front of goal this time, as Madrid’s defensive lapses in the first leg still showed some vulnerabilities.

Will Los Blancos finish the job, or can City conjure up a comeback of their own? Wednesday night will have the answer.

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