Real Madrid has pulled a last-minute trump card, with UEFA reportedly granting their request for a closed roof at the Bernabeu for their showdown against Manchester City in the Champions League.
Tonight, all eyes will be on the iconic stadium as Real Madrid hosts Man City for the quarter-final first-leg clash, with both teams hungry for victory.
The La Liga powerhouse, eyeing their 15th European title, aims to replicate their glory from the 2021/22 season but faces a formidable hurdle in the reigning Champions League holders.
Manchester City holds recent bragging rights, having toppled Carlo Ancelotti’s squad 5-1 on aggregate in last season’s campaign.
Fueling the anticipation, Spanish outlet Marca reports that the Bernabeu’s roof will be closed, creating an electric atmosphere reminiscent of their previous encounter against RB Leipzig.
Describing the scene as “a cauldron dressed in white,” Marca predicts a cacophony of noise and heightened pressure to unsettle the visiting team.
Meanwhile, Manchester City arrives in Spain with momentum, following a 4-2 victory over Crystal Palace where Kevin De Bruyne stole the spotlight with a dazzling brace.
On the other side, Real’s Jude Bellingham emerges as a key figure, boasting an impressive tally of 20 goals across competitions this season. Pep Guardiola, acknowledging Bellingham’s prowess, emphasizes not only his skills but also his tactical acumen, hinting at a challenging duel ahead.
Responding to Ancelotti’s critique of their performance last season, Guardiola rebuffs the notion that Real Madrid lacked personality, asserting that victory was earned through superior gameplay rather than the opponent’s shortcomings.
As the stage is set for a thrilling clash, anticipation brews, promising an unforgettable night of football drama at the Bernabeu.
