The stage is set for a thrilling Champions League knockout phase clash as Manchester City host Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday. This high-stakes match marks the first leg of their crucial play-off, with both teams fighting to stay in the competition after underwhelming performances in the revamped League Phase.
According to Sky news Real Madrid, the record 15-time European champions, finished 11th in the League Phase, well below expectations. They won five of their eight group-stage matches but suffered losses to Lille, Liverpool, and AC Milan. On the other hand, Pep Guardiola's Manchester City narrowly squeezed into the play-offs, securing a spot in 22nd place after a vital 2-1 victory over Club Brugge in the final matchday.
Despite both teams' struggles, they remain formidable forces in European football. Real Madrid currently sit atop La Liga and are unbeaten in their last eight games across all competitions. However, their injury woes in defense are a concern, with Antonio Rudiger, Dani Carvajal, David Alaba, Eder Militao, and Lucas Vazquez all ruled out for the trip to Manchester.
City, meanwhile, have their own injury problems. New signing Nico Gonzalez is a major doubt after being forced off in Saturday's FA Cup win over Leyton Orient. Rodri continues to recover from a knee injury, while 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 edged past City in the semi-finals on aggregate, while City triumphed 5-1 in 2023. Last season, Real Madrid advanced on penalties in the quarter-finals, highlighting how evenly matched these two teams are on the European stage.
For this fixture, a draw seems a likely outcome, with both teams having injury concerns and inconsistent form. City's struggles in the Premier League, where they sit fifth, and their unconvincing FA Cup victory over Leyton Orient, suggest that they may not be in their best shape heading into the tie. Meanwhile, despite their defensive injuries, Real Madrid's solid form in La Liga makes them a dangerous opponent.
As the two European heavyweights face off once again, the winner of this tie will take a significant step towards claiming this year's Champions League title.
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