In the Round-of-16, first-leg fixture, Copenhagen will host the treble winners. They secured 8 points, with two wins and two draws, finishing second in a challenging Group A alongside Manchester United, Galatasaray, and Bayern Munich. This impressive performance allowed them to progress to the knockout stage, outshining both the Red Devils and the Turkish side.
On the other hand, Manchester City had a flawless performance in the group stage, winning all of their matches and securing 18 points. They finished as Group G winners, continuing their title defense into the Last-16. They are also in great form in the Premier League, racking up multiple wins.
It’s worth noting that these two teams have played against each other four times before, and the Danish champions have yet to beat the Citizens. They’ve had two draws and two defeats in all their previous encounters. The English side will see this match as a chance to claim their third win over the Lions.
When and Where?
Date: Tuesday 13 Feb, 2024
Time: 20:00 HRS BST
Venue: Parken, Copenhagen
MATCH OFFICIALS
Referee: Raúl Cabañero
Assistants referees: Iñigo Prieto & Juan MartÃnez Munuera
VAR: Guillermo Cuadra
Fourth Official: Cesar Soto Grado
Team news
The hosts will miss their key midfielder, Lukas Lerager who played every single minute of the group stage and scored three crucial goals due to red card suspension. He will be joined on the sidelines by Davit Khocholava and Theo Sander, both of whom are out with knee injuries. Also, Birger Meling is doubtful as he is nursing a muscle injury.
The visitors’ star-studded squad will be in full swing with no injuries or absences on the list. Their recent absentee, the prolific Norwegian striker, made an astonishing return after missing several games and will be eager to start for his side on Tuesday.
Match Analysis
The Danish champions have not played any competitive fixtures since their final group stage 1-0 victory over Galatasaray two months ago, as their domestic league has yet to resume following the midseason break. Nonetheless, they face a significant challenge that awaits the side managed by Jacob Neestrup after sneaking into the knockout stage, going up against the world champions.
The Danish boss is expected to employ his regular 4-3-3 attacking setup, with Kamil Grabara in goal and a reliable back-line featuring. The center-back pairing of Kevin Diks and Denis Vavro, with Peter Ankersen and Elias Jelert as full-backs on either side of the defense, fortifies their defensive structure.
In midfield, Viktor Claesson steps into the boots of the suspended Lukas Lerager, alongside Diogo Goncalves and Rasmus Falk. The attacking third will showcase the promising talent of Roony Bardghji, with Mohamed Elyounoussi and Elias Achouri providing support as wide attacking wingers.
The English Champions are in dazzling form, with a run of triumphs across all competitions. Their squad is at full strength, peaking with confidence as all their key players have recovered and are eager to continue their title defense in the second half of the season, as they take on a resurgent Copenhagen.
The Pep Guardiola-led Citizens are likely to adopt an attacking 4-3-3 formation, with Ederson in goal behind a versatile back four. Kyle Walker and Joško Gvardiol are expected to feature as full-backs, maintaining their spots in the lineup. The solid defensive pairing of Ruben Dias and John Stones will anchor the center of the backline.
Rodri is to be tasked with the defensive midfielder role, teaming up with the creativity of Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva. This duo is known for their versatility and ability to roam freely in the middle of the park. Phil Foden, the hat-trick hero against Brentford, will take the left side with Jérémy Doku on the right, and Erling Haaland spearheading the attack as the target man.
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KEY PLAYERS
Kevin De Bruyne
The Belgian international has lit up the pitch ever since his return from a lengthy layoff last month, displaying astonishing form. He has made remarkable contributions with 7 goals in all of his 7 outings, including assists in his last four league matches.
The 32-year-old attacking midfielder’s presence in the lineup will be an added advantage for Manchester City at Parken Stadium. Excelling in his playmaking role, he will be making his first European appearance since last season’s final and aims to dazzle on the occasion with yet another impactful performance.
PREDICTED LINEUPS
Copenhagen predicted lineup: Grabara; Ankersen, Diks, Vavro, Jelert; Goncalves, Falk, Claesson; Elyounoussi, Bardghji, Achouri
Manchester City predicted lineup: Ederson; Walker, Dias, Stones, Gvardiol; Silva, Rodri, De Bruyne; Doku, Haaland, Foden
