On Tuesday morning, UEFA representatives and the match referee, Francois Letexier from France, granted a request to close the roof for the match between Manchester City and Real Madrid. City had no power to oppose this decision, similar to the case with Real’s last-16 tie against RB Leipzig.

Real is determined to avenge their semi-final exit to City from last season, and they have asked their fans to wear the home strip to create a ‘wall of white’ in support at the Bernabeu, which will be full to its 81,000 capacity. This match marks the third consecutive season the two clubs have met in the knockout stages.

City’s manager, Guardiola, emphasized the need to be aggressive and hurt Real, while also acknowledging the strength of their opponents. City midfielder Rodri believes that the team has learned from past experiences and has matured, gaining a greater level of composure on the pitch.

The team’s experience in the competition gives them confidence to perform well.