Real Madrid has reportedly requested permission from UEFA to play their upcoming Champions League quarterfinal first-leg tie against Manchester City under a closed roof at the Santiago Bernabeu. This request was made in an effort to boost the atmosphere for the game and create a more intense environment for the players and fans.
Manchester City, who won their first Champions League title last season, have faced Real Madrid in the competition for the third-successive season. In the last season’s semifinal first-leg, City drew 1-1 at the Bernabeu and lost 3-1 in Madrid in the semifinal second-leg 12 months earlier. Despite a 4-0 second-leg win at the Etihad, City lost 5-1 on aggregate in the semifinal last season.
Manchester City will be without injured right-back Kyle Walker for the upcoming game against Real Madrid. Walker played a key role in nullifying the threat of Vinícius Júnior in the last season’s semifinal. His absence due to a thigh injury sustained last month will be a significant blow for City as they prepare to face the Spanish giants.
City’s manager Pep Guardiola has shared his thoughts on the upcoming game against Real Madrid. He believes that the encounter will be a “classic,” but different from the previous meetings due to new players on both teams. Guardiola emphasized the importance of playing strong and confident in both legs of the tie, acknowledging Madrid’s strengths in transitions with players like Rodrygo, Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, and Vinicius.
Reflecting on last season’s performance against Real Madrid, Guardiola expressed admiration for Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti but noted that City made the Spanish giants play poorly. He highlighted the need to approach the game with a proactive mindset, aiming to score goals and assert dominance on the field. Guardiola emphasized the importance of not underestimating the opposition and staying focused on executing their game plan effectively.
The final decision on whether to play the game with a closed or opened roof will be determined by UEFA in conjunction with match referee Francois Letexier. The decision will be made at a routine pre-match technical meeting, considering factors such as weather conditions. The provision states that the game must end under the same conditions as it started, unless severe weather necessitates a change in the roof status.
Real Madrid’s request to play Manchester City under a closed roof at the Santiago Bernabeu highlights the strategic measures taken by the club to enhance the atmosphere for the upcoming Champions League quarterfinal first-leg tie. The absence of Kyle Walker will pose a challenge for City, but Guardiola’s confidence in the team’s ability to perform remains steadfast. As both teams prepare to face each other once again, the stage is set for an exciting and competitive encounter between two powerhouse clubs in European football.
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