By Willow Austin
Published on 2024-04-10 06:28:19
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is calling on City fans to step up ahead of the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium.
The Cityzens are favored to advance to the next stage by defeating Real Madrid for the second year in a row at the Etihad Stadium.
Last season, Real Madrid suffered a 4-0 defeat at the Etihad following a 1-1 draw at the Santiago Bernabeu. The support from City fans made the stadium an intimidating place for the visitors.
Guardiola is now expecting a similar atmosphere when they face Real Madrid in the upcoming match.
In a post-match conference, Guardiola praised his team’s maturity in Europe, acknowledging a significant improvement over previous seasons.
“In the past, we would have lost by a wide margin,” Guardiola stated. “One of the key factors in these games is emotional stability, which is fundamental. Our fans at home will play a crucial role in helping us score.”
Guardiola also commended his players for adapting quickly to the conditions of Real Madrid’s pitch, noting the difference in the grass quality.
“Adapting quickly to chaos is crucial at the highest level,” Guardiola emphasized. “I remember when Real Madrid had impeccable grass, but that was not the case today. However, I trust they will address it swiftly.”
