Champions League talking points: De Bruyne steps up as lethal strikers fail to fire 

This was the 32nd goal Kevin De Bruyne has been directly involved in so far this season - 10 of them his own, with 22 assists.

CHESS MATCH: Manchester City's goalkeeper Ederson saves at the feet of Real Madrid's Karim Benzema. Pic: AP Photo/Manu Fernandez

Battle of No9s falls flat 

It was billed as a clash that would be defined by the Ballon d’Or winning No9 against the man with sights on taking the crown. But neither Karim Benzema, the reigning world’s best player, nor Erling Haaland, the signing City have believed can finally land them European glory, made a lasting impact. Haaland was particularly quiet with a low first-time shot straight at Courtois in the 15th minute and a difficult header straight at keeper a minute later the only notable moments on an even when he had fewer touches than any other starting player.