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As we approach the thrilling UCL quarter-final second leg between Manchester City and Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium, all eyes are set on a fiercely competitive match-up. The first leg in Madrid saw football at its finest, with City leading twice only to be pegged back by a late goal from Federico Valverde, resulting in a pulsating 3-3 draw.
This sets the stage perfectly for the return fixture, where Manchester City's formidable home record could play a decisive role. This season, Guardiolaβs squad has been invincible at the Etihad in the Champions League, winning all 4 matches with a consistent scoreline of 3 goals each game.
Despite Real Madrid's robust defence, City's attacking prowess suggests they will likely penetrate Madridβs backline. However, City's own defensive vulnerabilities, having kept only one clean sheet in the tournament, might offer Madrid ample scoring opportunities. With both teams coming off convincing weekend victories, the stage is set for a monumental clash that will determine who advances to the semi-finals.
Both Teams to Score is a strong bet given Manchester City's offensive strength at home and Real Madrid's consistent scoring record in UCL matches.
The betting tip is...
Both Teams to Score (BTTS).
61 %
39 %
John Stones is expected to return to the lineup against a formidable Real Madrid attack, after missing the last match. Foden & Rodri, after being rested during the weekend, will also make their return.
Fodenβs UCL goal tally is 5 in 7 matches, while he has also laid on 3 assists. Haaland has 6 goals and 1 assist in the UCL this season. City also have Julian Alvarez who is no less in scoring than Jack Grealish and Kevin De Bruyne who are all goal-scoring players.Β
Additionally, both Kyle Walker and Nathan Ake, who were on the bench in the recent PL game, are potential options for Pep Guardiola to consider for starting roles or strategic substitutions. With City's recent form showing 3 wins and 2 draws in their last 5 games, expect an all-out City side for this important match.
Kyle Walker is likely to return in this match.
Predicted Lineup: Ederson; Josko Gvardiol, Ruben Dias, Manuel Akanji, Kyle Walker; Rodri, Bernaro Silva, Kevin De Bruyne; Phil Foden, Julian Alvarez, Erling Haaland.
The team will be without Aurelien Tchouameni, who is suspended due to an accumulation of yellow cards. Both Thibaut Courtois and David Alaba are sidelined for the remainder of the season.
However, Eder Militao is set to bolster the defence, anticipated to start alongside Antonio Rudiger who played a critical role in containing Haaland in the first leg. The squad still boasts considerable talent with Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo ready to make impactful contributions.Β
Toni Kroos will be crucial in midfield, tasked with dictating the pace and disrupting Manchester City's rhythm with his precise passing. Federico Valverde, after securing a draw in the first leg with his late goal, will again be vital for his ability to strike from distance.
Militao or Nacho are likely to start with Rudiger in this match.
Predicted Lineup: Andriy Lunin; Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao/Nacho, Antonio Rudiger, Ferland Mendy; Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, Camavinga, Jude Bellingham; Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo.
In this highly anticipated quarter-final second leg, Manchester City's formidable home record and recent form suggest they hold the edge. With City unbeaten in 41 home games across all competitions, their consistency and attacking flair are expected to shine. However, Real Madridβs Champions League pedigree and their knack for scoring crucial away goals cannot be underestimated.Β
Over the past 3 seasons, Madrid have faced English rivals in the semis each time, with the winner going on to lift the trophy. Two years ago, Los Blancos produced a football miracle in the second leg to deny City. If Real Madrid are to win this match, it will possibly be by a moment of individual brilliance.Β
The teams are evenly matched in scoring prowess, but Cityβs robust home performance this season, combined with Real Madrid winless at the Etihad so far, tilt the odds slightly in City's favour. Expect a tightly contested game with Manchester City likely to edge out a victory.
