With the 2019-2020 UEFA Champions League resuming in August, the second leg of the round of 16 clash between Real Madrid and Manchester City will be taking place. Manchester City is leading 2-1 on aggregate.
Real Madrid is on a mission, as winners of three of the last four Champions Leagues. Last season, they were eliminated by Ajax in a heartbreaking and humiliating fashion. Their objective is to avenge their humiliating exit and hoist its 14th Champions League title.
After a frustrating loss in the first leg against Manchester City, it’s clear that they are fighting from behind. Real Madrid must score at least two goals in the second leg to move on. Since Los Blancos are on the visiting side, they have to take advantage of the away-goals rule. A 2-0 win would allow them to advance to the quarterfinals and eliminate Manchester City from the tournament. Unfortunately for Real Madrid, team captain Sergio Ramos is suspended for the second leg due to a red card he received at the end of the first matchup.
Manchester City is also on a mission. Their exits in the past three tournaments have been in very disappointing fashions. So, for Manchester City, their objective is to reach the final and the title for the first time in club history. Real Madrid is out to get them. Manchester City cannot afford any disappointing exit from the tournament as they’re more determined to win the title. In Manchester City’s case, at this point, it’s now or never.
Who’s Likely To Advance?
Based on the talent, team chemistry, and mentality, Manchester City is the odds-on favorite. They took the win in the first leg as the visitors. Now they have the chance to seal the deal in the Etihad or a neutral site game that will count as a home game.
At this point, it remains unclear if this game will take place in Manchester or in Portugal. It’s confirmed that a mini-tournament with the final eight clubs of this year’s Champions League will take place in Lisbon. The remaining Round of 16 matches are set to complete Aug. 7 and Aug. 8. The final is scheduled to take place Aug. 23rd.
Does Real Madrid Have A Chance?
Although the odds are not in their favor, they do have a legitimate shot. The problem isn’t the talent, it’s rather the mentality. Los Blancos have to be ready to go when it’s game time as they can’t afford any mistakes.
On a positive note, Eden Hazard, who’s played in Real Madrid’s last two wins in La Liga play, will be available. He could be key in helping to upset the Citizens.
