Champions League holders, Manchester City, are set to commence their title defense as they face off against Red Star Belgrade at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday.
With both teams eager to make their mark in European football, this encounter promises to be a thrilling one.
Match Preview
Manchester City has begun the 2023-24 season with an impressive winning streak, claiming maximum points in all five of their Premier League matches.
Their latest triumph against West Ham United showcased their determination and resilience as they turned the game around after falling behind before halftime.
Goals from Jeremy Doku, Bernardo Silva, and last year’s top scorer, Erling Haaland, secured a convincing victory for Pep Guardiola’s side.
Haaland’s prowess in front of goal was evident once again, as he found the back of the net in the 86th minute.
Despite his previous inability to score during last year’s crucial stages, the Norwegian striker’s twelve goals propelled Manchester City to continental glory.
Guardiola will surely rely on Haaland’s lethal finishing to dismantle Red Star Belgrade’s defense in this upcoming clash.
On the other hand, Red Star Belgrade has experienced some setbacks recently, suffering two defeats in their last three domestic fixtures.
After an impressive start to their season with four consecutive victories, their vulnerability has been exposed in recent games.
Defensive frailties have plagued Barak Bakhar’s side, conceding six goals in their last three matches. Maintaining a solid defense will be crucial for Red Star, especially when facing a formidable opponent like Manchester City.
Team News
As they prepare for the daunting task ahead, Manchester City will have to manage without Kevin De Bruyne, who remains sidelined until the end of 2023 due to injury.
Although Mateo Kovacic, Jack Grealish, and John Stones are doubtful for the match, Guardiola is unlikely to make significant changes to the team that faced West Ham.
Nathan Ake may come in as a replacement at either center-back or left-back.
Contrarily, Red Star Belgrade enters this clash with a clean bill of health, allowing Barak Bakhar to select his strongest squad.
The Serbian champions have experimented with both a back four and a back three formation this season, but they are expected to utilize the latter against Manchester City.
Possible starting lineups:
Manchester City:
Ederson;
Walker, Akanji, Dias, Ake;
Rodri, Silva; Foden, Alvarez, Doku;
Haaland
Red Star Belgrade:
Glazer;
Mijailovic, Dragovic, Rodic;
Bukari, Krasso, Stamenic, Kangwa, Mitrovic;
Lucic, Olayinka
Prediction: Manchester City 4-0 Red Star Belgrade
Given Manchester City’s impressive form and Red Star Belgrade’s recent struggles, it is difficult to envision anything other than a comfortable victory for Pep Guardiola’s men.
A strong start to their Champions League campaign is anticipated as they aim to secure maximum points in this opening fixture.