Manchester City fans were thrilled at the sight of Ruben Dias returning to the squad for their Champions League quarter-final second leg against Atletico Madrid.
After another thrilling night in Europe on Tuesday, City will be looking to book their place in the semi-finals this evening as they make the trip to the Spanish capital. The Blues already know who their opponents will be should they finish the job against Atletico tonight.
Real Madrid lie in wait in the last four, with Carlo Ancelotti’s men seeing off defending champions Chelsea in a thrilling encounter at the Bernabeu. Just a few miles away, City will be aiming to avoid any slip-ups as they continue their hunt for the treble.
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Pep Guardiola’s side of course hold a 1-0 lead from the first leg at the Etihad, thanks to Kevin De Bruyne’s second-half strike. They were made to work hard for their lead though, with Diego Simeone’s pragmatic side frustrating them for large periods.
They can expect more of the same this evening at the Wanda Metropolitano, although that all-important goal could well work in the visitors’ favour. They will be favourites to go through, and continue their search for a first European crown.
Following their titanic title showdown with Liverpool on Sunday, Guardiola makes just two changes to his side. Gabriel Jesus and Raheem Sterling make way following the weekend's 2-2 draw, with Ilkay Gundogan and Riyad Mahrez returning to the side.
It also means Phil Foden holds onto his place, having made a huge impact off the bench in the first leg, while Kyle Walker returns to Champions League action after his three-match suspension. There's also a return to the bench for Ruben Dias as he takes another step towards his return from injury, with City's fans delighted to see him back.
This evening’s game could of course provide another big step towards a historic treble for City this season. Having maintained their one-point advantage over Liverpool on Sunday, they face the Reds again at Wembley in the FA Cup semi-finals on Saturday, and will hope to be a step closer to another Champions League final.
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