Real Madrid adapts to Champions League needs: Shock and awe one week, armadillo defense the next
Real Madrid players celebrate after wining the Champions League quarterfinal second leg soccer match between Manchester City and Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, England, Wednesday, April 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson)[ASSOCIATED PRESS/Dave Thompson]
BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — Real Madrid has shown once again there is no tougher task in club soccer than beating the Spanish powerhouse in the Champions League. Its victory over Manchester City after a penalty shootout kept Madrid on course to add to its unmatched haul of 14 European Cups. Antonio Rudiger scored the decisive spot kick after another superb defensive effort to anchor Madrid’s defense and help it weather wave after wave of City attacks. Madrid’s ability to play any way it needs, even packing its area and hoping for penalties, is the secret to its continued success in Europe’s elite competition.
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Real Madrid's Antonio Rudiger scores the winning penalty during the penalty shootout against Manchester City following the Champions League quarterfinal, second leg soccer match at the Etihad Stadium, in Manchester, England, Wednesday, April 17, 2024. (Mike Egerton/PA via AP)
Photo: ASSOCIATED PRESS/Mike Egerton