Real Madrid to seek redemption against Man City in Champions League clash

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola  is anticipating  a more resolute Real Madrid seeking revenge after their comprehensive defeats in last season’s Champions League, where City thrashed Real madrid  5-1 on aggregate in the semi-finals.

 

Guardiola emphasises that it will be unlikely that they will  replicate  their success in last season despite the difficulty Real Madrid poses in Tuesday’s first leg of the quarterfinal.

“It is impossible to beat Real Madrid twice in a row,” Guardiola declared. “They’ve grown and will seek retribution. They have pride.

Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrids coach, affiemed  Guardiolas statement when he stressed on  the importance of mental toughness this time around in his press conference.

Looking back on their last season clash, Ancelotti admitted to  deficiencies in courage and personality, crucial elements in high-stakes matches.

“Courage and personality are fundamental in this type of game, we lacked them in the second leg,” he said.

Analysing their  tactical approach  for the upcoming fixture, the ex- Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger, who was very instrumental  in containing Erling Haaland in last season’s first leg, expressed his readiness to face City’s formidable attackers.

“Our  plan is to try and control dangerous players like Phil Foden, [Kevin] de Bruyne and, of course, Haaland,” Rudiger stated.

Real Madrid  recently bolstered their squad with  the addition of midfielder Jude Bellingham this season, acknowledge his significant contributions, particularly in the offensive aspects of the game.

Ancelotti  heaped praises on  Bellingham’s maturity and professionalism, stressing on  his versatility and impact on the team. “He’s having a very good season in the penalty box,” Ancelotti added.

“He’s physically very strong and he’s helping us a lot in the defensive aspects and up front, to create space and provide movement. He’s very mature.”