The UEFA Champions League play-off round features a thrilling encounter between two of Europe’s top teams, Real Madrid and Manchester City, with the first leg scheduled on Tuesday, February 11th. Recent meetings between these clubs have been intense, including their quarter-final clash last season, during which Real Madrid advanced to lift the trophy at Wembley.



This match is notable for the forms of both teams this season. Real Madrid has struggled, losing two of their four away games and finishing 11th in the group stage, missing out on a place in the top eight of the Champions League.

Similarly, Manchester City has had a disappointing campaign, ending up 22nd and qualifying for the knockout stage only on goal difference. They currently sit outside the Premier League’s top four.


Their recent form was evident over the weekend, with City coming from behind to defeat third-tier Leyton Orient 2-1 in the FA Cup. Real Madrid could only manage a 1-1 draw against city rivals Atlético Madrid, intensifying their struggles.

Adding to Madrid's woes, Lucas Váuez will be sidelined for two to three weeks due to a muscle strain, while Dani Carvajal is out until the 2025/26 season. This injury crisis will likely see Fede Valverde step into a defensive role as a makeshift right-back, as both teams aim to regain form.

Real Madrid possible lineup.

Courtois, Fede Valverde, Tchouameni, Raúl Asencio, Ferland Mendy, Luka Modrić, Ceballos, Bellingham, Vinícius Jnr, Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo.

Manchester City possible lineup.

Ederson, Matheus Nunez, Ruben Dias, Stones, Gvardiol, Gundogan, Kovacic, Bernardo Silva, Marmoush, Haaland, Savinho.

Source: https://hub.opera.com/