Lucas Vazquez was the unsung hero of Manchester City’s nail-biting win over Real Madrid to reach the UCL semi-finals.

As the plaudits continue to pour in for Real Madrid after their UCL quarter-final against Manchester City, one player who isn’t getting enough praise is none other than Lucas Vazquez. It was a night to remember for all Real Madrid players and supporters as they booked their place in the UCL semi-finals after 120 minutes of end-to-end action.

Taking a team like Manchester City to the Etihad Stadium, especially in the Champions League, has proven to be a difficult task in the past. Before the defeat against Real Madrid, Pep Guardiola’s side were unbeaten in 30 consecutive Champions League games at home. City recorded a remarkable victory last season, beating Real Madrid 4-0 in the semi-finals at the Etihad.

This season, however, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti got his strategy on point. Ancelotti’s players put on a heroic display and proved that it is possible to beat City in their fortress. Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin was the hero of the night as he made two saves in the penalty shootout. However, Lucas Vazquez has been out of the spotlight despite his invaluable contribution against City.

Lucas Vazquez played a huge role last night:

◉ Scored from his penalty
◉ Advising Lunin before the shootout
◉ Took the lead during huddles to give team talks

the leader the legend Made in Madrid. pic.twitter.com/oHkg8dDvaa

— The Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) April 18, 2024

Lucas Vazquez, Real Madrid’s homegrown talent, calmly put in a master cla*s, coming on in the 102nd minute. Although it didn’t go unnoticed, Vazquez was one of the first to speak during the huddle just before the penalty shootout began. The 31-year-old was also seen giving advice to Lunin before the shootout. All in all, Vazquez came on, scored his penalty and left the pitch as a UCL semi-finalist once again.

Lucas Vazquez brings back memories of 2016 UCL triumph with his ice-cold moment

As Lucas Vazquez stepped up to take his penalty kick against Manchester City in the UCL quarter-finals, he brought back memories of the 2015-16 UCL final. Eight years ago, Real Madrid faced their city rivals Atlético Madrid in the Champions League final. With both sides tied 1-1 in extra time, the game went to penalty kicks.

Interestingly, Lucas Vazquez was the first penalty taker Los Blancos. In stressful situations like penalty shootouts and games like the Champions League final, almost every player will be shaking their boots. Vazquez, on the other hand, barely broke a sweat as he twirled the ball on his fingers and headed towards the goal to take the spot kick.

Don’t think ice cold is enough to describe Real Madrid’s Lucas Vazquez in the penalty shootout 🥶

The man is crazy.

If he can’t get the ball in his hands, he’s banging it during the Champions League quarter-final shootout 🤯pic.twitter.com/wcHrLUGAxQ

— Sacha Pisani (@Sachk0) April 18, 2024

Vazquez brought back his iconic ice-cold moment against City last night. The Real Madrid star was seen juggling the ball just before taking the penalty kick. From the spot, Vazquez made no mistake as he calmly slotted the ball into the net. Lucas Vazquez proved once again last night why despite not being the most popular player, he is easily one of the most reliable players that Real Madrid can rely on in pressure situations.

Carlo Ancelotti makes an honest confession about the penalty shootout win

Meanwhile, Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti made an honest confession following his side’s incredible win over Manchester City in the UCL quarter-finals. In the clash between Europe’s behemoths, the two head coaches, Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola, had two completely different game plans.

Guardiola’s City attacked relentlessly, kept possession and put pressure on Madrid’s defence, Ancelotti’s men defended heroically and picked their moments smartly. Ultimately, the game went to penalty kicks after 120 minutes of action failed to separate the two teams. Speaking after the match, Ancelotti revealed the only way, and perhaps the only way, Guardiola can beat City.

Carlos Ancelotti, one of the best managers in UCL history, admits that the only way to beat Man City is on penalties!

That’s the only way to win against City. The only one.” pic.twitter.com/IvKe1KSF84

— City Chief (@City_Chief) April 18, 2024

Ancelotti said“It was the only way to win against City (penalty shootout). the only“Ancelotti’s game plan can be a source of inspiration for any team looking to stop Manchester City, who are undoubtedly one of the best teams in the world at the moment. Still, credit goes to the Real Madrid players who played their hearts out to keep Manchester City at bay.