Champions League: Real Madrid and Man City Close in on Quarterfinal Qualification

Real Madrid of Spain is close to qualifying for the quarterfinals after defeating Leipzig of Germany 1-0 in the match played on Tuesday at the Red Bull Arena, as part of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first leg.

Leipzig started the first round without any introductions, opening the scoring in the third minute through Benjamin Sesko. However, the referee, Irphan Biljto, disallowed it after consulting the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) due to offside, returning the score to 0-0. Both teams then sought the first goal and attempted to maintain it to get closer to qualifying for the next round before the second leg.

Both teams made numerous attempts to score, but the goalkeepers Andriy Lunin and Peter Gulacsi showcased excellent saves, while defenders played well and attackers rushed in the final touch. The first half ended in a goalless draw, leaving the decision for the winner to the second half.

Real Madrid managed to open the scoring early in the second half, with player Ibrahim Diaz scoring in the 49th minute with a powerful shot that left no chance for goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi to save. Leipzig found themselves in need of pushing harder to equalize and preserve their chances of advancing to the next round, especially since the second leg will be played in Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.

Leipzig attempted to equalize with several chances, but their efforts were unsuccessful due to the rushing attackers and Lunin's excellent saves. Real Madrid also couldn't find the net for the second time against Gulacsi, securing the match with a 1-0 victory for Ancelotti's team.

Real Madrid will host Leipzig for the second leg on Wednesday, March 6th, at 9:00 PM at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.

In another match played simultaneously at Parken Stadium for the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first leg, Manchester City of England secured a 3-1 victory against Copenhagen of Denmark.

Manchester City opened the scoring in the 10th minute through Kevin De Bruyne, and Copenhagen equalized in the 34th minute with Magnus Mattsson. Before the end of the first half, Bernardo Silva added the second goal for Manchester City, leading 2-1.

Both teams failed to score in the second half, and Manchester City aimed to add a third goal to avoid any surprises from the opponent. In added time, Foden secured the third goal, and the match ended with a 3-1 victory for Manchester City.

Manchester City will host Copenhagen for the second leg on Wednesday, March 6th, at 9:00 PM at the Etihad Stadium.