Watch: Jude Bellingham's wonderful last-minute strike helps Real Madrid beat Manchester City 3-2

The UEFA Champions League knockout playoff round was poised for an electrifying encounter as Manchester City took on Real Madrid at the Etihad for their round of 16 clash.

Real Madrid came into this match after a challenging stretch, having settled for a 1-1 draw in a critical derby against Atlético. With star players like Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and Rodrygo, they are determined to exploit a City defence that has not been at its best lately.

Jude Bellingham's late strike helps Real Madrid to win first leg

In the 11th minute, Manchester City narrowly escaped conceding a penalty to Real Madrid. Valverde located Vinicius lurking behind the Man City defence, and he charged into the penalty area. Ederson brought him down, prompting the referee to point to the spot. However, the assistant referee had already raised his flag as Vinicius was clearly in an offside position.

In the 13th minute, Manchester City came close to conceding yet again. Rodrygo connected with Mendy, who executed a one-two with Vinicius. The French full-back then got behind Ederson and struck towards the bottom corner from just a few yards out. However, Ake made a desperate dive to intercept the shot, preventing what seemed to be a certain goal.

In the nineteenth minute, Erling Haaland broke the deadlock. The hosts took the lead as Haaland expertly latched onto Gvardiol's chest down from a beautifully clipped ball off the left flank, smashing it into the net.

Mbappe revived the hopes of Madrid fans by scoring in the 60th minute, bringing a surge of energy to the match at the Etihad. Initially, Valverde took a free kick that struck the wall, but the play quickly developed as the ball rebounded to Ceballos. He identified Mbappe making a dynamic run from the left side of the box. Ceballos delivered a clever chip pass to Mbappe, who attempted a scissor-kick.

Manchester City reclaimed their lead in the 80th minute. Ceballos was brought down by Foden just outside the box, leading the referee to award a penalty. After a collision that left the England winger on his back, he received treatment on his injured knee.

The Norwegian striker confidently sent his shot into the right side of the goal, catching Courtois off guard. 

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However in a late surge of attacks, Madrid made a monumental comeback, with strikes from Diaz and Bellingham in injury time to win the first leg. Real Madrid won 3-2.