By Max Tijero, Year 12
On the 11th of February 2025, for the 4th season in a row, another infamous Real Madrid vs Manchester City Champions League match will take place. In previous years, this faceoff seemed like an anticipated final, and whoever won this match, would go on to win the entire tournament. This year however, these two giants meet very early on. It is the pre-round of 16 playoffs. In the previous years, these teams were the favorites to go ahead and win everything, but that’s not the case this year.
Despite having world class squads, both teams have suffered injuries to key players like Dani Carvajal for Real Madrid, or Rodri for Manchester City. This has led to a crash in the form of both teams. Real Madrid managed to somewhat stay constant and are now top of the league. Manchester City, however, are in a difficult state, winning only 1 match out of the previous 12. However now, they’ve managed to steer clear of this form and they are back to their winning ways.
Last year, the quarter finals between Real Madrid and Manchester City were the 2 best matches of the season. The 1st leg was an astonishing 3-3 match filled with comebacks, astonishing goals and world class players. The second leg was a perfect display of an immaculate balance bettween defense and attack. Manchester City kept possession of the ball whilst Madrid sat in their own box running down the time. Finally the game ended 1-1 and went to penalties, where Real Madrid also made a comeback winning 4-3.
This year, Real Madrid are the favorites to win, given that they’ve been the better team this season and that City have been extremely shaky in defense. Real Madrid is a much more proven side, with players that have already conquered the world on multiple occasions. City have a much more doubtful squad, and have been proved to not have a good defense-offense transition.
However, like most years, it is impossible to predict what will happen in this match. It has become a tradition for both teams to face each other. Some sort of a European Derby. Even if this year the teams have not been up to standard, we can not expect anything other than brilliant football, shining individual displays and an intense tactical battle.
The first leg will be played in the Etihad Stadium, whilst the second leg will be played in the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu. This gives Los Blancos (Real madrid) a big advantage, as they are known for their resilience in home matches and incredible mental strength, helping them to overcome impossible deficits and comeback when everyone gave them death.
There is lots to look forward to now. Only wait a few more days until the peak of European football and the best 2 teams face each other.
