Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola lamented his team’s “bad decisions” following their 3-2 loss to Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League play-off tie on Tuesday night.
City squandered a lead twice at the Etihad, with Erling Haaland scoring two goals, one in each half. However, Kylian Mbappe, Brahim Diaz, and Jude Bellingham found the net for Madrid, giving them a narrow advantage going into the second leg at home.
Speaking to reporters after the match, Guardiola said:
“It’s happened many times this season. I know the quality of Real Madrid. In the second half, we took control and tried to attack too quickly.
“It happens because they [Real Madrid] are an exceptional team.
“It’s happened many times this season. Bad decisions, that’s all.
“I take responsibility for it. It’s not just about me, it’s about everyone. Yes, injuries have been a factor, but we know that.”
