Atletico Madrid – Manchester City
One of the coolest soccer games is ready for its second iteration. Atlético de Madrid has played a defensive role in England. However, a clever piece of play between Phil Foden and Kevin De Bruyne opened the door for the Spaniards to take control of Manchester City.
Los Rojiblancos He was expected to sit down and defend deeply. This has always been a specialty of Diego Simeone over the years in the big games. They didn’t have any shots on target and were close to equalizing. However, they were undone at the last minute and would need to score two goals at home.
🔙 @Champions League
🔜 #AtletiManCity pic.twitter.com/oFPwVoKRL6– Atletico Madrid (@atletienglish) April 10 2022
Atletico’s problems were exacerbated by the loss to Mallorca at the weekend. This reduced the difference in points with Real Betis to only one point. Joao Felix has found some form but the lack of creativity is still an issue. Simeone will have to be adventurous in his approach that can push Antonin Griezmann forward.
The city is in an ideal position to advance. They have the lead, and they will surely recover after their strong performance against Liverpool. Pep Guardiola’s side has always been one of the best in the world with no signs of slowing down. That’s the kind of faith that makes him say things as he sees his retirement with City. Kevin De Bruyne is peaking at the right moment.
Giant title race Clash! 📈💥 pic.twitter.com/Ekcu3S1ll7
– Manchester City (ManCity) April 10 2022
Gabriel Jesus has constantly proven how important he is to the team and in Joao Cancelo, they have a wing-back who can create an offensive threat. However, Citizens will have to beware of Atletico’s quick attacks. There were cases in previous rounds when Atletico managed to suddenly hit opponents. However, it is a City feature as of now.
Team news
Hector Herrera is Simeone’s only absentee from this confrontation. Luis Suarez will be looking to make an impact off the bench.
potential line: Oblak. Savic, Jimenez, Felipe; Llorente, de Paul, Cook, Kondogbia, Lodi; Felix, Griezmann
Guardiola will be happy to welcome back Kyle Walker which means Cancelo will slip to the left.
potential line: Ederson. Walker, LaPorte; Stones, Cancelo; De Bruyne, Rodri, Silva; Foden, Sterling, Mahrez
game changers
Foden’s assist in the Champions League match against Atlético de Madrid was a great thing. The 21-year-old is truly a game changer with his energy, desire and drive to attack at every opportunity.
Foden down the left or through the middle is an intimidating proposition for any team. He regularly trailed behind Trent Alexander-Arnold against Liverpool, catching the ball and playing his teammates in dangerous areas.
Phil Foden was directly involved in over 20 goals for the second consecutive season 💎 Tweet embed #UCL pic.twitter.com/bDEP0yHir0
– RouteOneFootball (@Route1futbol) April 5 2022
Foden can run with the ball quickly and make dangerous cross passes. Moreover, he can shoot from within sight and one of his favorite options is to shoot through the goalkeeper. The three Atlético centre-backs must be careful not to outsmart him at speed. Marcos Llorente will have to do his defensive work hard if City’s threat is to be contained on the left flank.
For Atlético, it is difficult to see who is going forward in the attacking direction given the lack of performances in the first leg. If one guy can get up, it’s Felix who’s having a good season. He has eight goals and four assists, but Felix’s gameplay is much more than just numbers. The way he can influence games, make driving, and penetrating runs of opponents is critical. The city is a solid side, make no mistake.
🔥 3 goals and 4 dribbles 🔥
🎮 Tweet embed Do you #LaLiga Santander #POTM For the month of March! 🇵🇹🌟#MVP pic.twitter.com/KcxNx0Q7Ah
– LaLiga English (LaLigaEN) April 8, 2022
However, they have holes in their shield as Liverpool revealed. Defenders can be found quite high at times, leaving spaces behind. City like to play from behind so constant pressure from Atletico will be key. Felix can break defensive lines and run fast which can disturb his opponents.
predictions
First of all, Atlético Madrid have to attack otherwise, they are already out. This will give City chances to score and beat the tie. football A 1-1 draw between the two teams is expected.