Manchester City and Real Madrid, the last two winners of the Champions League, will battle for a place in the last 16 when they meet at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday night.
The reigning European champions, City, barely secured a spot in the knockout playoffs after a dramatic comeback win against Club Brugge on the final matchday.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid, despite a strong finish to the league phase, fell just short of automatic qualification, finishing one point outside the top eight.
Current Form
City, who once dominated the Champions League with a 22-game unbeaten run between 2022 and 2024, have struggled for consistency this season.
They managed only two wins in their first seven group-stage matches and needed a late push to avoid early elimination.
Despite a shaky run of form—including a heavy 5-1 league defeat to Arsenal—City remain strong at the Etihad, where they have won all four of their home games in 2025, scoring at least three goals in each.
Real Madrid also faced difficulties in the group stage, losing three of their first five matches. However, they bounced back with wins over Atalanta, Red Bull Salzburg, and Brest to secure a playoff spot.
Domestically, their form has been mixed, with a recent 1-1 draw against rivals Atletico Madrid.
Team News
City could be without several key players, including Nico Gonzalez, who suffered an injury in the FA Cup win over Leyton Orient. Oscar Bobb, Nathan Ake, Jeremy Doku, and Ederson are also doubtful, while Rodri remains sidelined with an ACL injury.
Kevin De Bruyne, fresh off scoring the winner in the FA Cup, is expected to start and is one goal or assist away from becoming the all-time top scorer in Champions League fixtures between these two teams.
Madrid’s defensive options are severely limited, with Lucas Vazquez, Antonio Rudiger, Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, and David Alaba all injured.
Aurelien Tchouameni is likely to fill in at center-back alongside youngster Raul Asencio. Several players, including Jude Bellingham, Luka Modric, and Eduardo Camavinga, risk suspension if booked.
Predicted Lineups
Manchester City:
Ederson; Nunes, Akanji, Dias, Gvardiol; Silva, Kovacic; Foden, De Bruyne, Savinho; Haaland
Real Madrid:
Courtois; Valverde, Tchouameni, Asencio, Mendy; Camavinga, Modric; Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vinicius Jr.; Mbappe.
