Real Madrid meet Manchester City in the second leg of their Champions League play-off tie tonight.
The Spaniards hold a one-goal advantage from the first encounter, following a dramatic late win at the Etihad. Carlo Ancelotti’s side trailed heading into the final four minutes of normal time but goals from Brahim Diaz and Jude Bellingham sealed a 3-2 success in Manchester.
The holders will want a response to a disappointing draw with Osasuna at the weekend. Bellingham’s first-half red card contributed to dropped points in a 1-1 draw, with Barcelona taking advantage to move top of the division on goal difference on Monday night.
5️⃣ @BellinghamJude
9️⃣ @KMbappe pic.twitter.com/WYOBDD3z1M— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) February 18, 2025
Manchester City warmed up for the clash with an emphatic 4-0 win over Newcastle. Omar Marmoush scored his first City goals with a first-half hat-trick at the Etihad.
Real Madrid vs Manchester City – Predicted lineup and team news
Real Madrid team news
Carlo Ancelotti has been boosted by the return of Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba to training ahead of the clash. Having utilised a makeshift defence in the first leg, Rudiger’s return is welcomed.
Ancelotti confirmed in his pre-match press conference that Lucas Vázquez may only be fit enough for the bench, so Federico Valverde should continue at right-back. Aurelien Tchouameni could be pushed back into midfield in place of Dani Ceballos.
In terms of absentees, Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal continue long recoveries from ACL injuries. Jude Bellingham is available despite a looming domestic ban.
Real Madrid predicted lineup
Real Madrid predicted XI: Courtois; Valverde, Asencio, Rudiger, Mendy; Camavinga, Tchouameni; Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vinicius; Mbappe.
When is Real Madrid vs Manchester City?
Real Madrid host Manchester City in the second leg of their Champions League play-off tie on Wednesday 19th February 2025. Kick-off in at the Bernabeu is 20:00 GMT.
What TV channel is Real Madrid vs Manchester City?
The game is live in the UK on TNT Sports 1.
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