End of hope for Manchester City? Bernardo Silva concedes penalty and is sent off – Vinicius converts
Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
The second leg of the Champions League Round of 16 between Manchester City and Real Madrid turned into a true nightmare for Pep Guardiola’s squad. The main villain of one crucial moment was the Citizens’ captain, Bernardo Silva.
Details: It all began with furious protests from Real Madrid players, who claimed a handball in City’s box. Silva tried to convince the referee that his actions were unintentional.
- See also: Southampton vs Norwich City: prediction, head-to-head and probable line-ups – 18 March 2026
But after consulting VAR, the referee not only pointed to the spot, but took an even more drastic measure. For denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity, Bernardo Silva was shown a straight red card.
Reduced to ten men and facing a penalty, Manchester City found themselves in critical trouble. Vinicius Junior stepped up to the spot and, unlike the first leg (where his effort was saved by Donnarumma), this time he was flawless. The Brazilian coolly sent the keeper the wrong way, silencing the stadium.
As of the 28th minute, the score remains in favor of Real Madrid, who now lead 4-0 on aggregate after two legs.
Reminder: Real Madrid midfielder Thiago Pitarch broke Vinicius’s record in the Champions League playoffs.