Guardiola’s disappointment as Real Madrid escape the Etihad alive

Minute 81 of the Manchester City - Real Madrid Champions League semifinal first leg, Benzema was about to step up to score the most courageous of Panenka penalties, but City coach Pep Guardiola wasn’t able to watch what was happening out on the pitch. Sat on his little fridge, Bielsa-style, he covered his face with the sleeves of his top while the Real Madrid striker stepped and wheeled away to celebrate.

Benzema’s key penalty

It was a goal that was absolute vital for Madrid, who travel to the Bernabéu still very much in the tie, and one which left City gutted and frustrated at what could have been on a night they scored four against Ancelotti’s side.

Man City scored four but Madrid are still alive

Guardiola couldn’t believe it. He’d tried everything, including putting Fernandinho out on the right. His side had been better player for player and pound for pound for much of the night, his attacking line had ripped through the Madrid defense, and yet... the result was a complete disappointment. One which brought to mind the nightmares of PSG and Chelsea. And so City and Guardiola headed out of the Etihad with a victory that tasted of defeat.

Guardiola left gutted as Madrid escapeOLI SCARFFAFP