In an unexpected turn of events, both Manchester City and defending champions Real Madrid find themselves facing off in the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League. This marks the fourth consecutive season that these two football giants will clash in the knockout rounds, adding to the anticipation for fans around the world.
Match Details
Fixture: Manchester City vs. Real Madrid Date: Tuesday, February 11, 2025 Kick-off Time: 9:00 PM GMT / 4:00 PM ET Venue: Etihad Stadium, Manchester
Recent Form and Context
Real Madrid has a storied history in the Champions League, having consistently advanced to the round of 16 in previous campaigns. In contrast, Manchester City is eager to re-enter the knockout stages for the first time since the 2013-14 season. With new signings Omar Marmoush and Abdukodir Khusanov now included in City's Champions League squad, both players may have the opportunity to make their European debuts.
Despite their strong history, Real Madrid's journey this season has been rocky, finishing 11th in the group stage. However, under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti, the team is currently perched atop LaLiga and is known for rising to the occasion in crucial matches. Their objective for this first leg is to secure a favorable result to take back to Madrid.
Team News
Manchester City Lineup Predictions:
Manchester City will be without new midfield signing Nico Gonzalez due to an injury sustained in their recent victory over Leyton Orient. He joins several players on the injury list, including Oscar Bobb (leg), Nathan Ake (muscle), Jeremy Doku (undisclosed), and Ederson (undisclosed). Long-term absentee Rodri (ACL) will also miss out. However, star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is expected to return to the starting lineup after scoring the decisive goal in the previous match. He has a knack for performing against Real Madrid, aiming for his record-breaking ninth goal contribution against them in the Champions League.
Predicted Manchester City XI (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Ederson
- Defenders: Nunes, Akanji, Dias, Gvardiol
- Midfielders: Silva, Kovacic
- Forwards: Foden, De Bruyne, Savinho, Haaland
Injuries: Gonzalez, Bobb, Ake, Doku, Rodri Suspensions: None
Real Madrid Lineup Predictions:
Real Madrid is grappling with its own injury crisis, with key players such as Lucas Vazquez, Antonio Rudiger, Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, and David Alaba sidelined. In light of these defensive absences, Carlo Ancelotti is likely to turn to youngster Raul Asencio to partner with Aurelien Tchouameni in the center of defense.
Predicted Real Madrid XI (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Courtois
- Defenders: Valverde, Tchouameni, Asencio, Mendy
- Midfielders: Camavinga, Modric
- Forwards: Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, Mbappe
Injuries: Vazquez, Rudiger, Carvajal, Militao, Alaba Suspensions: None
Where to Watch
Fans can catch the exciting clash between Manchester City and Real Madrid on television via the Movistar platform. The match will be broadcast on the following channels:
- LaLiga TV Bar
- M+ LaLiga de Campeones (M60 O115)
- M+ LaLiga de Campeones 4 (M180 O276)
Additionally, the match can be followed live with minute-by-minute updates on ARA.
Match Prediction
Given the current defensive issues faced by Real Madrid, Manchester City is poised to capitalize on these weaknesses. Both Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne are expected to shine, but Real's attacking stars will also be looking to make their mark. The prediction leans towards a thrilling encounter, with Manchester City likely edging out Real Madrid 3-2.
Zainab Y.
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