Champions League: Rodri Criticises Real Madrid’s Ultra Defensive Tactics After Man City Exit

• Rodri slammed Real Madrid after Man City got eliminated from the Champions League
• The 27-year-old star believes his side were the better side and deserved to progress
• Meanwhile, Los Blancos will face Bayern Munich over two legs for a spot in the final

Manchester City midfielder Rodri has criticised Real Madrid for adopting ultra-defensive tactics in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash.

Following a 1-1 draw that left the aggregate score level at 4-4, Antonio Rudiger converted the decisive penalty for Real Madrid in the shoot-out.

Bernardo Silva and Mateo Kovacic had their attempts saved, securing Los Blancos' 4-3 victory and progression to the next stage, according to Sky Sports.

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Rodrygo had initially given the 14-time European champions the lead on the night and in the tie with an early goal on the counter-attack. However, Kevin De Bruyne's 76th-minute equaliser forced the match into extra time.

Despite Man City's dominance and relentless attacking play, the defending champions failed to capitalise on their efforts as Madrid held firm, ultimately prevailing in post-match penalty shootouts.

Carlo Ancelotti's side put up a resolute defensive display, frustrating Pep Guardiola's reigning champions, who were graciously applauded from the pitch despite their defeat.

Rodri, who played the entire duration of the game, expressed his frustration after the match, insisting that the Cityzens were the superior side.

“Nothing much to say. Congratulations, Real Madrid. To be honest with you, I only saw one team tonight,” he said after the game as quoted by Tribuna.

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The 27-year-old added: "We deserved to go through. There's no explanation. We didn't expect Madrid to be that defensive."

Who are the Champions League semi-finalists for this year?

Sports Brief examines the Champions League semi-finalists for this year.

Real Madrid secured their spot by defeating Manchester City 4-3 in a penalty shootout on Wednesday, marking their return to the semi-finals.

Joining them are six-time champions Bayern Munich, French titleholders Paris Saint-Germain, and 1997 victors Borussia Dortmund.