The UEFA Champions League returns this week with a thrilling semi-final clash at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, as Real Madrid host Manchester City, led by Pep Guardiola. Madrid has been doing fairly well this season, currently holding the second spot in the La Liga standings. They secured a 2-1 victory over Osasuna in the Copa del Rey final and should be fairly confident going into this match at home.
Meanwhile, Manchester City has been performing exceptionally well in recent weeks. They currently sit at the top of the Premier League table. In their previous match, they defeated Leeds United 2-1 and will look to make a statement in the first semi-final between the two sides.
The Champions League ™️#UCL pic.twitter.com/fkExMVnuV6
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) May 9, 2023
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Real Madrid–Manchester City Champions League semi-final preview
Real Madrid and Manchester City are set to face off in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final on Tuesday, promising another thrilling match. Reigning champs Madrid defeated Chelsea with four goals over two legs to make it to the last four. Meanwhile, Man City beat Bayern Munich 4-1 on aggregate.
Real Madrid, who are almost guaranteed the top-flight title, are focused on securing their 15th European crown. They have reached the final in four of their last five seasons where they progressed to the semis, losing only to Chelsea in the 2020-21 season. Meanwhile, Manchester City is also a top contender, with a four-point lead over Arsenal at the top of the Premier League table and an FA Cup final on the horizon.
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Real Madrid are currently on a winning streak of five successive Champions League matches. They have been keeping clean sheets in their last three and scoring in their last 16 continental games since a 1-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain in February 2022. City have only drawn one of their last 16 games in all competitions and has been performing exceptionally well.
However, Guardiola’s side risk setting a record of seven Champions League semi-final eliminations. Last year, Real Madrid defeated Manchester City 4-3 at the Etihad before losing 3-1 at the Bernabeu after extra time in the most recent of Pep’s six semi-final exits. Fans are expecting another exciting match.
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Real Madrid possible starting lineup:
Courtois; Carvajal, Rudiger, Alaba, Camavinga; Valverde, Kroos, Modric; Rodrygo, Benzema, Vinicius Jr
Manchester City possible starting lineup:
Ederson; Walker, Dias, Akanji; Stones, Rodri; Silva, De Bruyne, Gundogan, Grealish; Haaland
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Real Madrid–Manchester City prediction
Recent weeks have seen Manchester City performing exceptionally well and they are in the running for a treble this season. Erling Haaland has made headlines with his record-breaking performances this year and will aim to continue making an impact in the upcoming game.
Real Madrid have also put in impressive performances, securing their first trophy of the season last week. However, City have a stronger lineup, giving them a slight edge in this all-important semi-final clash.
Prediction: Real Madrid 1-2 Manchester City
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Date, kick-off time, venue
The Champions League semi-final between Real Madrid and Manchester City is scheduled to kick off at 8 pm BST in the UK on May 9, and at 12:30 am on May 10, at the Santiago Bernabeu.
