UEFA Champions League: Live Real Madrid vs Manchester City

Preview

On Tuesday night, all eyes will be locked on the Santiago Bernabeu as Real Madrid gear up to take on Manchester City in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final. The hosts will be riding high on their recent Copa del Rey triumph, while the visitors come into the tie having reclaimed the top spot in the Premier League. Last season, the two teams met in a thrilling semi-final encounter, with Real Madrid ultimately prevailing over two legs.This semi-final promises to be just as exciting. Kick-off is at 7pm (GMT).

Rodrygo proved to be the hero with his brace in the Copa del Rey final against Osasuna. However, Los Blancos will need to shift their focus quickly as they face a tough challenge against Manchester City in the Champions League. With their domestic title hopes fading away, Real Madrid are prioritising their pursuit of a 15th European crown.

The holders are on a five-match winning streak in the Champions League. However, they have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last four games across all competitions, which should be a concern for Carlo Ancelotti. Real Madrid have lost two of their last five matches and will need to be at their best against a formidable City side.

Manchester City secured a nervy 2-1 win over Leeds United on Saturday, despite a missed penalty from Ilkay Gundogan. Nevertheless, City remain four points clear at the top of the Premier League table ahead of Arsenal, with an FA Cup final also on the horizon. They have been in excellent form, winning 15 of their last 16 matches in all competitions, with their only blemish being a 1-1 draw away to Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals. However, Guardiola will be wary of his record of six semi-final eliminations in Europe’s elite competition, with Real Madrid being the team to send him packing last year.

Head-to-Head

Man City have won three of their last four Champions League games against Real Madrid, but lost 3-1 in their most recent meeting.

Prediction

While Real Madrid will look to put their league struggles behind them, Manchester City will come into the game with great confidence, having enjoyed a remarkable run of form. Guardiola’s side will aim to exploit a vulnerable Real Madrid defence, especially without Militao, who will miss the game due to suspension. Despite Madrid’s European pedigree, we believe Manchester City will secure a crucial first leg victory.

UEFA Champions League: Live Real Madrid vs Manchester City preview