Manchester City Women 1 Athletico Madrid 1

Manchester City Women faced off against Athletico Madrid in the first knock out round of the Women’s Champions League in a repeat of last year’s fixture which ended in defeat.

This time out though, Manchester City seemed much more focused and ready to progress. Too often in the past some of these games in this competition have seen the team almost freeze like rabbits in the headlights of an approaching car.

Yet today things were different from the kick off. City were engaged and committed, searching and probing against a strong Madrid team who could count ex City star, Toni Duggan, in the line up.

In the early phases of the game, both teams traded punches like boxers sizing up their opponents. If anything it appeared as though Madrid had the upper hand after various incisive moves required excellent saves from Ellie Roebuck in the city goal to keep the score level.

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However, the game began to turn and City started to throw some neat combinations and Madrid began to drop their guard. Janine Beckie scored following a threaded pass from Keira Walsh which was seemingly deflected straight into her path.

City closed the half, largely in control and dominating the possession, but Madrid continued to look dangerous on the break and it was apparent to all in the crowd that another goal would be required.

The second half was more measured and careful. City were confident enough to allow Madrid some of the ball and seemed to still be exercising control. Tacticians tend to refer to this as game management but the longer it went on, the more uncomfortable I felt. It felt like a risky strategy as Madrid chased every pass back and clattered into our players.

Lauren Hemp broke through the Madrid defence and had the clearest chance, but her shot was cleared for a corner. Another opportunity beckoned from the corner as Steph Houghton fired the ball from close range but her shot was deflected wide.

It remained a dangerous game that City were playing and this was reinforced in the 80th minute when Madrid worked an equaliser and all of a sudden the spectre of another Champions League exit began to hang heavy. The goal came from the failure by City to clear their lines and Madrid forcing players into the box.

City tried to find a way to take the lead again but chances did not come and instead will feel like a momentary lapse of concentration cost a valuable result. The tie is not over but the return leg has been made much harder.

Madrid are the best side City have faced so far this season and although the tie is not over by any stretch of the imagination, City will need to be at their best in 2 weeks time.