Real Madrid suffered a 2-1 home defeat to Manchester City in a decisive UEFA Champions League group stage match on December 11, 2025. The result at the Santiago Bernabéu saw the English champions complete a double over the Spanish giants in the group phase, securing top spot in the process. Manchester City took control early, scoring twice in the first half through incisive attacking moves. Real Madrid fought back after the break and pulled a goal back to set up a grandstand finish, but they were unable to find an equalizer despite intense pressure in the final minutes. A key moment was a disallowed Madrid goal for a foul in the buildup, confirmed by VAR. The loss meant Real Madrid finished second in the group, setting up a potentially tougher knockout round draw. Pep Guardiola called it a "statement" win, while Carlo Ancelotti acknowledged City were the better team on the night.