Half-Time Report: Real Madrid in control against Manchester City

Real Madrid have opened up a comfortable 3-1 lead at half time in their International Champions Cup clash against Manchester City in Melbourne.

The match got off to a disappointing start for City when debutant Fabian Delph was forced off on 18 minutes with a hamstring strain.

Madrid took the lead with 21 minutes on the clock as Karim Benzema pounced in the box to volley Gareth Bale's cross past Joe Hart.

Rafael Benitez's side doubled their advantage just three minutes later through Cristiano Ronaldo, who poked home after getting on the end of a long ball.

The Spaniards continued to create chances after that as City struggled to cope. Isco was denied by a last-ditch challenge from Bacary Sagna before Bale almost made it 3-0 when he headed over.

City fought back during the final stages of the half, but they were unable to turn their possession into any clear-cut opportunities. The best that they could muster was a tame effort from Samis Nasri that was easily held by Keylor Navas.

With the clock ticking down towards the break, Madrid found the net for a third time when Pepe rose highest to head in powerfully from Isco's corner.

However, Manuel Pellegrini's side had the final say of the half as Yaya Toure converted from the penalty spot after Sergio Ramos was harshly judged to have handled the ball inside the box.