The stage is set for an exciting Champions League knockout clash as Manchester City host Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday. This high-stakes encounter marks the first leg of their crucial play-off, with both teams eager to stay in the competition after underperforming in the revamped League Phase.
According to Sky News, Real Madrid, the record 15-time European champions, finished a disappointing 11th in the League Phase. Despite winning five of their eight group-stage matches, they suffered losses to Lille, Liverpool, and AC Milan. Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City narrowly qualified for the play-offs, securing a 22nd-place finish after a crucial 2-1 win over Club Brugge on the final matchday.
Though both teams have faced struggles, they remain formidable forces in European football. Real Madrid are currently atop La Liga and unbeaten in their last eight games across all competitions. However, their defensive injury concerns are significant, with Antonio Rudiger, Dani Carvajal, David Alaba, Eder Militao, and Lucas Vazquez all sidelined for the trip to Manchester.
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City, too, are dealing with injury issues. New signing Nico Gonzalez is a doubt after being forced off in Saturday’s FA Cup win over Leyton Orient, while Rodri is still recovering from a knee injury. Key players such as John Stones, Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden, and Erling Haaland are expected to return to the starting XI after being rested over the weekend.
The two sides have a recent history of tightly contested Champions League encounters. In 2022, Real Madrid narrowly overcame City in the semi-finals, while City triumphed 5-1 in 2023. Last season, Real Madrid advanced on penalties in the quarter-finals, showcasing how evenly matched these two teams are in European competition.
With both teams facing injury concerns and inconsistent form, a draw seems likely in this encounter. City’s struggles in the Premier League, where they currently sit fifth, and their unconvincing FA Cup victory over Leyton Orient, suggest they may not be in top form heading into the tie. However, despite their defensive injury setbacks, Real Madrid’s solid form in La Liga makes them a dangerous opponent.
As these two European giants square off again, the winner will take a significant step toward claiming this year’s Champions League title.
