Manchester City vs. Real Madrid Preview
Manchester City awaits Real Madrid in the most interesting game of the entire Champions League program this week. The Citizens have a 2-1 edge from the first leg, but they can’t be too relaxed before this one. Surging Los Blancos, who recently snatched La Liga, arrived in town, looking to extend their fantastic streak of good performances, and create a massive upset.
Manchester City (-120)
The Citizens didn’t have anything to play for in the English Premier League, but they kept the form for this competition. Guardiola’s machinery posted solid results, yet, it is imperative to say that the Spanish manager didn’t want to overload his players, and risk any injuries.
City’s strength was seen against Liverpool, one week after the Reds secured the title. A welcome at the Etihad was more than memorable, with the hosts trashing the newly-crowned champs packing four goals in their net. Since the comeback, the Sky-Blues played six matches at home, winning all of them and conceding just one goal. On the other side, they’ve scored 24, three or more in five contests.
Sergio Aguero is still not ready to play, while Benjamin Mendy skips this one because of the yellow card suspension.
Real Madrid (+320)
The Spanish powerhouse was superb in La Liga, not losing a single game after the resumption of play, and passing over Barcelona to clinch their 34th national title. Up until the moment when they secured the trophy, Real had 10 straight wins. The last round saw them playing 2-2 with Leganes, but that match had no competitive meaning for Zidane’s crew.
In 11 contests played over the last two months, Real scored twice or more 8 times, and that is mostly because of Karim Benzema, who is having the time of his life. The French veteran was unstoppable, and all Real’s opponents experienced that on their skin.
The problematic situation for Los Blancos is Sergio Ramos’ suspension. The captain and the leading defender is out for this match. Mariano Diaz and Gareth Bale are long gone, while Marcelo and Hazard are game-time decisions.
Head to Head
The first game in Madrid, saw the Citizens coming back after a 1-0 deficit, created by Isco. Gabriel Jesus and Kevin de Bruyne pushed their team towards the first overall win against the Los Blancos.
Prediction
The only thing why City has the advantage here is Ramos’ absence, which will be a massive blow for the guests. After all, he is the essential link in Zidane’s backline. Therefore, the pick here is City, at -120