'It's a bit tough' – Antoine Semenyo reflects on Champions League debut in Real Madrid loss

Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo has opened up on his Champions League debut, admitting Manchester City paid the price for giving Real Madrid opportunities in their 3-0 first-leg defeat at the Santiago Bernabéu.

The 25-year-old, who joined City from Bournemouth in January, started in the round of 16 clash against the competition's record winners. It was a harsh introduction to Europe's elite stage as the Spanish giants took control.

Speaking to Hayters TV after the match, Semenyo analysed where the game slipped away from his side.

"They had their moments; they kept the ball really well and exploited the bit of space that we had in the middle of the park," he said.

"So it's obviously a bit tough, but again, that happens. It's a tough team, and if you give them a chance, they will take it."

Despite the result, Semenyo reflected on his personal journey from non-league football to the Champions League—a path he described as surreal.

City now face an uphill battle in the second leg on Tuesday, March 17, needing a major turnaround at the Etihad to keep their European dreams alive.