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Can Los Blancos Finish the Job at the Bernabeu?
Real Madrid holds a slim 3-2 advantage heading into the second leg of their Champions League clash against Manchester City. With a place in the round of 16 on the line, Carlo Ancelotti’s side will look to make home advantage count at the Santiago Bernabeu.
While Madrid has been at the center of recent refereeing controversies, the focus on Wednesday will be entirely on their performance. Jude Bellingham is available after his contentious red card at Osasuna, while Antonio Rudiger is expected to return and strengthen the backline.
With Madrid’s attacking stars in fine form, another Champions League classic could be on the horizon. Here’s how Ancelotti might set up his team.
Real Madrid Predicted XI vs Man City (4-2-3-1)

Goalkeeper & Defense
- GK: Thibaut Courtois – The Belgian shot-stopper will need to be at his best, as clean sheets have been hard to come by this season.
- RB: Federico Valverde – A natural midfielder, Valverde excelled at right-back in the first leg and is expected to start again.
- CB: Aurelien Tchouameni – Madrid’s defensive injury crisis has forced the Frenchman to step in at center-back, and he has adapted well.
- CB: Antonio Rudiger – Set to return after missing the first leg, his physicality will be crucial in handling Erling Haaland.
- LB: Ferland Mendy – Likely to be preferred over Fran Garcia for his defensive solidity, especially against City’s pacey wingers.
Midfield
- CM: Eduardo Camavinga – Fully fit again, the dynamic Frenchman will be key in controlling the midfield battle.
- CM: Dani Ceballos – With Luka Modric playing at the weekend, Ceballos could get the nod for fresh legs in midfield.
Attack
- RW: Rodrygo – The Brazilian has a habit of stepping up in big European nights and will be a threat down the right.
- AM: Jude Bellingham – Madrid’s match-winner in Manchester will be determined to shine again after his controversial red card.
- LW: Vinicius Junior – The Brazilian forward thrives in the Champions League, and his duel with City’s defense will be key.
- ST: Kylian Mbappe – In red-hot form, the French superstar will look to make the difference in this crucial showdown.
Will Madrid Hold Their Lead?
Real Madrid has the firepower to hurt Manchester City, but can they keep their defensive shape and see out the tie? Will Bellingham and Mbappe deliver on the big stage again, or will City turn the tables? Drop your predictions in the comments!













