Champions League: Manchester City vs. Real Madrid
By Ty Duffy
Man City vs. Real Madrid. It’s the world’s richest club against the world’s most prestigious club. It is the champions of the world’s two premier soccer leagues. It is Jose Mourinho’s current post against his strongly hinted future one. This a true clash of titans, though neither has started auspiciously.
Real Madrid have dropped eight points from their first four matches. They dropped just 13 over the entire season last year. Cristiano Ronaldo is sad. Mourinho questioned the players’ dedication and mentality. Whatever the underlying reason, they have played like crap. Madrid’s 77 turnovers this season lead La Liga. Cristiano Ronaldo, with 14, leads the league among individuals. City have been better, but not great. Entering the EPL season as heavy favorites, they have drawn both their road fixtures. League leaders in fewest goals allowed last year, they have yet to keep a clean sheet.
Success in Europe will be crucial for Roberto Mancini’s future. He’s been very successful domestically as a club manager, winning four league titles and five domestic cups, but he’s known for choking in Europe. He had some bad losses in early knockout rounds as Inter Milan manager. He could not steer Man City out of the group stage last season. Winning the league is the expectation now. Man City must set their sights beyond. Mancini would also love to get one over on Mourinho.
We would offer a prediction, but through the conspiracy of beInsportUSA and Time Warner, this will be our first time seeing Real Madrid play.
[Photo via Presswire]