For the fourth consecutive season, Manchester City and Real Madrid are set to clash in the UEFA Champions League. The two teams have established a thrilling rivalry in Europe’s premier competition, and this season’s knockout stage will add another exciting chapter. 

A Historic Rivalry: Real Madrid vs. Manchester City for Four Seasons

Real Madrid has proven their ability to overcome Manchester City in dramatic fashion in recent years, eliminating them in both the 2021/22 and 2022/23 Champions League semifinals. In contrast, City earned their revenge by eliminating Madrid in the 2020/21 semifinals, before going on to claim their first European Cup. This clash marks the fourth consecutive season the two sides will meet in the Champions League, a testament to the growing rivalry between these two top clubs.

Team Form and Key Players to Watch

This season, Real Madrid has been in solid form, winning their last three matches and securing first place in their Champions League group. However, they face a tough challenge in Manchester City, who are fresh off securing their fourth consecutive Premier League title. Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland have been pivotal for City, and Madrid’s defense will need to be sharp to neutralize their influence on the game. For Ancelotti’s team, much will depend on the performances of Vinícius Júnior and Karim Benzema, two of the club's most reliable attacking forces.

Tactical Battle: Ancelotti vs. Guardiola

One of the most intriguing aspects of this matchup is the tactical battle between Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola. Both managers have immense experience in European competition, and their strategies will be key to the outcome. Ancelotti, known for his composed, tactical approach, will look to exploit City's defensive weaknesses, while Guardiola, always focused on ball possession and high press, will seek to dominate possession and control the pace of the game.

Recent Encounters: Close Call for Both Sides

In the most recent meetings between the two clubs, Real Madrid has proven resilient. In the 2022/23 semifinal, Madrid suffered a heavy 4-0 loss in the return leg at the Etihad Stadium, but their famous comeback in 2022 remains fresh in the memory of fans. City had a commanding lead in that tie but were dramatically knocked out by Rodrygo's two late goals, sending the tie into extra time, where Karim Benzema scored the decisive penalty.