Real Madrid Vs Olympique Lyonnais: Champions League Match Preview
Real Madrid will be desperate to qualify for the quarterfinals of the Champions League after nearly six year as they take on http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Olympique-Lyonnais-c40130 in the second leg of the UEFA Champions league last-16 tie on Wednesday at the noisy Estadio Santiago Bernabeu.
Both team lies on balanced terms after playing a 1-1 draw in the first leg at Stade de Gerland. Lyon must be remembering last year when they surprisingly knocked out Real Madrid out of the competition at this very stage.
Real Madrid’s track record against Lyon is miserable as they have been defeated seven times by Lyon in Champions League matches. Although they must be feeling confident considering their recent form in this season. They have yet to concede a goal at home,
going unbeaten in Europe and dominating their group by only conceding two goals while netting an impressive 15 goals makes them a very dangerous side for this season.
Both teams are in the deadliest of the forms as they have not been beaten once in their last five matches.
One thing that would hinder Lyon’s plans is their lack of ability to clean sweep in away games on the last eight occasions. Considering the fire power of Real Madrid forwards, it would again test the skills of their defence. Lyon could create history if
they beat Real at Bernabéu as no French club has won on this ground.
The match is important for Jose Mourinho’s future as well, because Real’s hierarchy wants him to win at least the UEFA Champions League title after having very minimal chances left to win the La Liga season where Barcelona is holding on to a substantial
advantage over Madrid.
Team News
Real Madrid should be pleased to see their most of the players fit and available for the game. The biggest news has come up in the shape of Cristiano Ronaldo’s recovery who was holding back due to injury problems. Former Lyon player http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Karim-Benzema-c20350 is all
set to make his presence felt whereas Mesut Ozil and Angel Di are also expected to play their part in the attacking options of Madrid.
The good news for Lyon is Lisandro Lopez comeback and at the same time they would miss the services of http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Michel-Bastos-c25461 due to his suspension. Aly Cissokho’s inclusion in the final eleven is still doubtful. Yoaan Gourcuff is the one Lyon player expected to
make things tough for Read Madrid with his creative game display.
Prediction
The match is expected to be a nail-biter because both teams have the ability to surprise the opponent. Although, Jose Mourinho’s inspiring leadership and the flawless home record of Real Madrid makes them favourites to clinch the game. A close 3-2 win in
favour of Madrid can be expected.
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