Gabriel Jesus played in an unfamiliar role in Manchester City’s 2-1 win over Real Madrid, but he was outstanding over the 90 minutes and more than played his part as the Sky Blues came from behind to win 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The 22-year-old was strong in the air, seldom relinquished possession, created the second-most amount of chances on the pitch, had the joint-most shots, turned over possession multiple times and frequently took on his opponents when on the ball.
He also had a hand in both goals, first heading home City’s equaliser from a brilliant Kevin De Bruyne cross, then winning the penalty that De Bruyne tucked away to seal the win.
Spot on Lakey ! They did nothing but slag his selection off before and during the game on TV, and yet look what happened! Other than the injury to @Laporte , who we wish well, it couldn't have gone better tonight for us really ! Jesus was IMMENSE! #trustinPep #RMAMCI #mcfc https://t.co/JX6SHYcZwi
— Davros (@Davros1736) February 26, 2020
Jesus and KDB immense tonight. #MCFC
— TheFirstONeill (@TheFirstONeill) February 26, 2020
For me, that’s Gabriel Jesus’ best game for City. #MCFC
— Jacob (@jacobpowles19) February 26, 2020
Deserved win for Man City, superb displays from De Bruyne and Jesus in particular. Guardiola's bold team selection vindicated and City in control of the tie with two precious away goals #MCFC @MirrorFootball
— David McDonnell (@DiscoMirror) February 26, 2020
Some performance from the blues, showed real character coming from behind. Jesus, Mahrez and Kev were excellent, but they all played their part. Can’t wait for the return leg, certainly not done, but a huge step into the next round. #gritty #mcfc
— Mark Kuczaj (@1kooch) February 26, 2020
I’ve moaned about him and tonight I have to be honest and say Gabriel Jesus was decent . Now if he can keep that up I might want him to stay .. #mcfc #mancity #CTID
— Mike McClean (@mikemcclean5) February 26, 2020
Gabriel Jesus was unreal last night. I wonder if he's best used out wide with his hard work getting back. He was at LB at times and then popped up with a goal. Wonderful stuff 👏🏼👏🏼 @ManCity @gabrieljesus33 #MCFC
— King Kun (@King_Kun20) February 27, 2020
Was taught at school that Jesus was everywhere and I didn’t really believe it but I saw last night that they were right. #MCFC
— King Mouse 🐭 (@MouseKingSteven) February 27, 2020
Shout out to Gabby Jesus. Baller #mcfc
— TC (@tc_mcfc7) February 26, 2020
Gabriel Jesus’ game by numbers vs. Real Madrid:
✅ 95% pass accuracy
✅ 8 ball recoveries
✅ 4 shots (2 on target)
✅ 3 successful take-ons
✅ 2 interceptions
✅ 2 tackles won
✅ 2 aerials won
✅ 1 goalShining on the big stage 💫 #MCFC
— ManCityzens (@ManCityzenscom) February 26, 2020
Big. Big. BIG.
With a billion in the bank.
PEP MASTERCLASS. Jesus unreal tonight. De Bruyne, captain, massive. Mendy brilliant. Sterling came on + was lively. Fans were quality.
1st system was spot on + the changes made were spot on too.
ALL ABOUT THAT.#RMAMCI #MCFC pic.twitter.com/TpAumxO503
— We’re Not Really Here (@esteighteen80) February 26, 2020
Against Real, Jesus had 42 touches, won two aerial duels, completed 95.2% of his 21 passes, created three chances, had four shots with 50% accuracy, made two tackles, had three successful dribbles, drew one foul and made two interceptions.
The Brazilian international has made 36 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring and creating 27 goals. His performance in the Champions League may be one of his best in a City shirt, but time will tell if the Sky Blues can do enough in the second leg to reach the quarter-finals.