Sporting CP vs Manchester City: Champions League Last 16 Second Leg Preview
Sporting CP Looking to Overcome First Leg Deficit Against Manchester City
Sporting CP will host Manchester City in the second leg of their Champions League last 16 tie on Wednesday, March 9th. The Portuguese side goes into the match with a 5-0 deficit from the first leg at the Etihad Stadium. In order to advance to the quarter-finals, Sporting CP will need to produce a stunning comeback at home.
Manchester City Aiming to Secure Quarter-Final Spot
Manchester City will be looking to build on their lead and secure a place in the last eight of the Champions League. The English champions are in a strong position after their impressive display in the first leg and will be confident of getting the job done in Lisbon.
However, Pep Guardiola's side will be wary of the threat posed by Sporting CP, who are no strangers to causing upsets in this competition. The Portuguese side has already beaten Tottenham Hotspur and Eintracht Frankfurt in the group stages this season and will be looking to add Manchester City to their list of scalps.
Key Players to Watch
- Pedro Goncalves (Sporting CP): The Portuguese midfielder has been in excellent form for Sporting CP this season, scoring 15 goals in all competitions. He will be the main threat to Manchester City's defense.
- Bernardo Silva (Manchester City): The Portuguese midfielder has been one of Manchester City's best players this season. He will be looking to create chances for his teammates and score goals himself.
- Erling Haaland (Manchester City): The Norwegian striker has been in sensational form for Manchester City this season, scoring 32 goals in all competitions. He will be looking to add to his tally against Sporting CP.
Prediction
Manchester City are the clear favorites to win this match and progress to the quarter-finals of the Champions League. However, Sporting CP has shown that they are capable of causing upsets in this competition, so Pep Guardiola's side will need to be wary of their opponents.
The most likely outcome is a Manchester City victory, but Sporting CP will be hoping to produce a stunning comeback and reach the last eight.
