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Published on 2024-02-12 13:23:48
UEFA has made a significant change as the Champions League prepares to resume its knockout stages this week. Manchester City is aiming to defend their Champions League title as they face FC Copenhagen in the last-16 tie, while also competing in the Premier League and the Emirates FA Cup.
The first leg of the last-16 tie against FC Copenhagen will be played at Parken Stadium in Denmark. Manchester City previously faced the Danish team in the group stages last season, winning 5-0 at the Etihad Stadium and drawing 0-0 at the Parken Stadium. Guardiola’s team won all six matches in Group G this season, while FC Copenhagen reached the knockout stages ahead of both Manchester United and Galatasaray.
Ahead of Tuesday’s first-leg clash, UEFA introduced a new official match ball for the knockout stages named UCL Pro Ball London. The ball, created by adidas, features two roaring lions fighting among the traditional Champions League stars, celebrating London as the host city for the 2024 Final.
The eyes of Europe’s elite players will see a significant change due to the innovative PRISMA surface texture on the UCL Pro Ball London. The texture coating provides secure grip and complete control, while the thermally-bonded seamless construction guarantees ultimate performance.
Manchester City will be looking to reach their third Champions League Final after their success in Istanbul last June and their defeat to Chelsea in Porto in 2021. The team is currently on a 10-match winning streak across all competitions, having extended the winning run with a 2-0 win over Everton in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon.
The UEFA Champions League knockout stages promise excitement, with Manchester City’s bid to retain the title and the introduction of the UCL Pro Ball London adding a fresh touch to the competition.
Read Original article on City Xtra
