Two of Europe’s biggest powerhouses, Real Madrid and Manchester City, face off in a decisive UEFA Champions League knockout clash at the Bernabeu on Wednesday.
After a thrilling first leg at the Etihad, where Real Madrid edged out 3-2 winners, Pep Guardiola’s men must overcome the deficit to keep their European dreams alive.
Real Madrid, fuelled by their love affair with this competition, are on the brink of securing a quarterfinal spot. Meanwhile, Manchester City, 2023’s winners, are out to break their first-leg curse and pull off a crucial away victory.
🤍Real Madrid Aim to Seal Progress at Magical Home | Home Win = 2.02💵
Los Blancos return to the Bernabeu in high spirits, holding a vital first-leg advantage. Despite recent La Liga struggles, including a 1-1 draw with Osasuna, Real Madrid remain dominant in Europe. They have advanced from 37 of their last 39 knockout ties when winning the first leg away.
Carlo Ancelotti’s men are unbeaten against City in their last 3 meetings, and with Mbappe firing, they will aim to exploit City’s defensive vulnerabilities. A strong defensive display aided by the possible return of Antonio Rudiger, could see Madrid tighten their grip on the tie.
🔵Man City Hope to Overturn First-Leg Deficit | Away Win = 3.42💵
Man City must defy history, having never overturned a first-leg defeat in the UCL knockout rounds. However, Guardiola’s side have found their rhythm domestically, dismantling Newcastle 4-0 in their recent Premier League outing.
Erling Haaland, with 49 Champions League goals, is on the verge of breaking records, and his presence will be crucial in City’s attacking approach as they aim to break a three-game UCL away losing streak.
🗝️Key Players & Team News📰:
Real Madrid received a significant boost with Rudiger and David Alaba returning to training, though Lucas Vazquez remains sidelined. Jude, despite his looming domestic ban, is set to play a key role in Madrid’s midfield battle.
Man City welcomes back Dias and Ake, while Jack Grealish faces a late fitness test. Manuel Akanji’s absence will be felt, and Guardiola must find a way to keep Madrid’s attack at bay.
🔢Match Stats & Betting Odds | Draw = 4.32💵
⚽Real Madrid has progressed in 37 of their last 39 European knockout ties after winning the first leg away while Man City are winless in their last three UCL away games. | Main Market: Home/Draw & Over 2.5 = 1.78
⚽Man City have beaten Real Madrid at the Bernabeu before in the UCL, 1-2, in the 2020 UCL R16 2nd leg knockout tie. KDB scored for City in that game | Specials Market: Draw/Away & Over 2.5 = 2.60
⚽Haaland is one goal away from becoming the youngest and fastest player to reach 50 UCL goals. | Player Market: Haaland to Score Anytime = 2.14
With a spot in the quarterfinals on the line, expect another intense battle between these two European giants.
🔗You can follow & bet on the UCL game, Real Madrid vs Man City, on MSport.
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