Can Real Madrid do the impossible? UEFA Champions League Round of 16

The scoreline reads 2-1 in favour of Manchester City, and they have scored two crucial away goals. Real Madrid must score at least twice against City to overcome those two away goals. The first leg was a major disappointment for Zidane’s side, but the things have changed now.

After the restart, Real Madrid has collected an impressive 31 points from 11 league games, and at the same time overcome a two points deficit to outplace Barcelona and win the league by 5 points. On the other hand, Manchester City hasn’t been that impressive since the restart. They dominated the match against the current PL champions Liverpool but lost against Southampton and Chelsea in the league and got knocked out by Arsenal in the FA Cup semi-final. Adding more to Manchester City agony, Sergio Aguero will miss the match after suffering a knee injury against Burnley in June.

Pep Guardiola vs  Zinedine Zidane

 Looking back at the history of Champions League for Manchester City under Pep Guardiola, City has lost to Monaco in the Round of 16 in 2016-17 season. In 2017-18, It was Liverpool who thrashed Manchester City 5-1 on aggregate. Last year it was Tottenham Hotspur who spoiled the party and progressed on away goals after a 4-4 draw. These stats clearly show that Manchester City has a habit of bottling in the Champions League.

Their counterpart, Real Madrid are undefeated since the restart. They have only conceded only six goals since the football resumed. Also, Zidane is yet to lose a Champions League knockout stage tie. One advantage to City will be the absence of Sergio Ramos as he received a red card in the first leg.

The tie is far from being called over. Guardiola will use his best tactics to outsmart Zidane and Zidane side would look to topple City with the pace and aggression. I will say advantage Real Madrid considering their recent form. They will score twice. Let us see whether Manchester City can do wonders with Kevin De Bruyne or they will slump once again.