Manchester City’s players are set to make up for their deficit in the second leg of the Champions League round of 16 against Real Madrid on 16 March, if they are to progress to the next round. The match will take place at the Etihad Stadium.
Manchester City FC
Manchester City face a huge challenge following their 3-0 defeat in the first leg, and Saturday’s 1-1 draw with West Ham in the Premier League – which saw the club drop further points in the title race – offers little hope of a dramatic comeback. Even manager Pep Guardiola has admitted that the chances are slim. Since the 2014/15 season, he has not led any team to overturn a first-leg deficit in the Champions League, including three unsuccessful attempts with City. City have won at least three of their four home Champions League matches this season (one draw), but only one of those ended with the three-goal margin required to force extra time.
Josko Gvardiol remains in the Manchester City squad. There are still doubts over Rico Lewis.
Real Madrid
Real Madrid thrashed Elche 4–1 in Saturday’s La Liga match, keeping the pressure on leaders Barcelona and maintaining their good run of form ahead of their trip to England. History clearly favours Los Blancos, as they have progressed from the group stage in all 35 previous European campaigns in which they won the first match by a margin of at least three goals. However, their mixed record of wins and defeats in their last six Champions League away matches (3W, 3L) may give cause for concern. Two of those defeats came in England, including a 3-0 loss to Arsenal last April, suggesting that Real Madrid may be vulnerable to defeat on British soil.
Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo may miss the match, although Kylian Mbappé could return.
Manchester City vs Real Madrid prediction
Manchester City have their backs against the wall and must go all out on the attack. The team will look to push forward in force. Real Madrid are in fine scoring form, so it’s worth considering a bet on over 3.5 goals.
