As Manchester City prepares to face Real Madrid in a crucial Champions League knockout match, both teams find themselves in an unexpected predicament. This is the fourth consecutive season the two football giants are meeting in Europe, yet this time they are battling just to secure a spot in the last 16. The stakes are high, with both clubs experiencing uncharacteristic struggles this season.

Manchester City's journey to this stage has been tumultuous. They barely scraped into the knockout rounds, needing a last-minute victory over Club Brugge to qualify. Manager Pep Guardiola faced criticism for not bolstering the squad after last season's triumph, partly due to his own uncertainty about his future. Despite being in a strong position earlier in the season, injuries to key players like Rodri and a lack of form from stars such as Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden have contributed to a collapse in performance. Guardiola remains committed to the club, having signed a one-year extension, but the challenges ahead loom large.

On the other hand, Real Madrid's path to the knockout stage has been marked by inconsistency, highlighted by three group-stage defeats. Although they currently lead La Liga, their defensive woes have been glaring, with significant injuries impacting their backline. Coach Carlo Ancelotti's side boasts a formidable attack, featuring stars like Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappe, but their defensive commitment has often faltered. The result is a team that can win with flair but struggles to maintain stability. As both teams look to reignite their Champions League ambitions, their clash promises to be a thrilling encounter, with elimination on the line.