Real Madrid vs Manchester City: Champions League Play-off Preview

Manchester City will aim to overturn their first-leg defeat as they visit Real Madrid for the decisive Champions League play-off round on Wednesday night.

Match Preview & Predictions

Ahead of this crucial clash, we’ve analyzed potential line-ups, provided our score prediction, and selected a Bet Builder using our comparison tool.

Team News

Real Madrid’s injury concerns have eased, with only Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, and Lucas Vázquez unavailable. Carlo Ancelotti is likely to stick with the same starting XI that secured victory at the Etihad last week.

For Manchester City, Manuel Akanji joins Rodri on the sidelines after picking up an injury in the first leg. Pep Guardiola also faces late fitness tests for Oscar Bobb, Nathan Aké, Jack Grealish, and Rúben Dias. Despite concerns over Erling Haaland’s knee after the Newcastle match, Guardiola has downplayed the issue, and the Norwegian striker is expected to start.

Predicted Line-ups

Real Madrid (4-2-3-1): Courtois; Valverde, Tchouaméni, Asensio, Mendy; Camavinga, Ceballos; Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vinícius Jr.; Mbappe 

Man City (4-2-3-1): Ortega; Lewis, Khusanov, Stones, Gvardiol; González, Kovačić; Savinho, Foden, Marmoush; Haaland

Where to Watch

Kick-off is at 20:00 GMT, with live coverage on TNT Sports 1 and Discovery Plus.

Score Prediction

We predict a 2-1 victory for Real Madrid, with the reigning European champions expected to progress to the Round of 16.