The two clubs are meeting for the fourth consecutive year, having faced off in four Champions League knockout rounds since 2020, though never at this stage of Europe’s premier competition.

City manager Pep Guardiola has remarked that the frequency of these encounters has made it feel like a derby, while Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti described the matchup as a “modern classic.”

“It’s really tough and frustrating for everyone,” said City defender Stones, capturing the home team’s frustration.

“We were in it until the very end, then two events happened, and we conceded… We need to finish games more effectively… We had a fantastic opportunity to head to the Bernabeu with a 2-1 advantage. It’s not over. We must stay optimistic, though it’s tough right now.”

Ancelotti encouraged his players to remain composed for the second leg. “We didn’t deserve to be 1-2 behind. We were dangerous and defended well. Ultimately, the victory is deserved,” he said. “We must remain calm. It’s only the first half. Anything can happen at the Bernabeu.”