Real Madrid (A) - Tues 9th April, 20:00 | CL | Pre-Match Thread

[Gabriel]

They’re also an excellent side and, I would imagine, will still be smarting from last year’s capitulation, so they will be looking not only for a win but probably a cushion before the return leg. Would be surprised if we could keep a clean sheet, so if we do concede, then the key must be staying composed in the ten minutes after it.

 

[city warrior]

Madrid are fearful of the Etihad, even his coach and players have said they think it is the toughest place away. That plus the last two matches here where we could literally beat them for 5+ goals is a huge mental advantage. They know they have to win by at least 2 goals in Bernabeu.

I think Pep will go as defensive as he ever has, and I would too. The mental game is ours. I would go Rodri- KDB- Kovacic- Bernardo- Grealish- Foden as false 9 changing constantly with KDB. If we keep a draw, I would let Haaland in around the 60 min when they surely will try to go for goals and leave plenty of space behind.

Defensively it should be Akanji vs Vini for sure (unless Walker recovers). Dias and Stones and then Gvardiol if he is fit. If he isn't, I would prefer Lewis as a LB than changing Akanji.

 

[Kamaro011]

It will be like last season, draw at their place and hopefully win at our place.

 

[abu13]

I can see the first leg being a tight cagey affair, I dont think they will come at us all guns blazing. Instead I think they will sit deep to encourage us using a high back line and then look to break through us with their pace.

 

[deano ou812]

I honestly think both games will be tight I could see it going to pens ..

 

[xgorton]

See they have had a good rest,no game since last weekend and no game this weekend.

 

[IronsideKozuch]

Madrid are fearful of the Etihad, even his coach and players have said they think it is the toughest place away. That plus the last two matches here where we could literally beat them for 5+ goals is a huge mental advantage. They know they have to win by at least 2 goals in Bernabeu.

I think Pep will go as defensive as he ever has, and I would too. The mental game is ours. I would go Rodri- KDB- Kovacic- Bernardo- Grealish- Foden as false 9 changing constantly with KDB. If we keep a draw, I would let Haaland in around the 60 min when they surely will try to go for goals and leave plenty of space behind.

Defensively it should be Akanji vs Vini for sure (unless Walker recovers). Dias and Stones and then Gvardiol if he is fit. If he isn't, I would prefer Lewis as a LB than changing Akanji.

Interesting. You might he right hear. Crazy call with Haaland, but when You think longer about it... maybe it makes sense + Haaland played 90 min today, although had his goal since 66

 

[SWPISHOME]

See they have had a good rest,no game since last weekend and no game this weekend.

That could work in our favour, Hopefully they will be lacking match sharpness.

 

[jrb]

Madrid are fearful of the Etihad, even his coach and players have said they think it is the toughest place away. That plus the last two matches here where we could literally beat them for 5+ goals is a huge mental advantage. They know they have to win by at least 2 goals in Bernabeu.

I think Pep will go as defensive as he ever has, and I would too. The mental game is ours. I would go Rodri- KDB- Kovacic- Bernardo- Grealish- Foden as false 9 changing constantly with KDB. If we keep a draw, I would let Haaland in around the 60 min when they surely will try to go for goals and leave plenty of space behind.

Defensively it should be Akanji vs Vini for sure (unless Walker recovers). Dias and Stones and then Gvardiol if he is fit. If he isn't, I would prefer Lewis as a LB than changing Akanji.

No, no, that can’t be right! The toughest place to go in Europe is those magical European nights under the floodlights at Anfield. ;-)

 

[Big Jonjo]

Ortega
Akanji
Stones
Dias
Garvidol
Rodri
Bernardo
Grealish
Foden
Bobb
Alvarez

Presuming no Walker or Ake, Pep could go for something like this, doubtful, I know. But I think there is good energy in that team and it keeps the ball better. We can bring on The King and The Viking in the second half, if needed. Bernardo to help out Rodri from deep, if needed. Toss of a coin between Ortega and Eddy, however very difficult to drop Ortega due to his recent performances. I was impressed with Bobb today, especially 1st half and I think he could cause them some problems. Rico unlucky not to start, but they have a bit of pace going forward. Anyway, whatever team he puts out, I would take a draw, but would hope for a win. C'mon the Boys in Blue!