The opening clash in the Champions League semi-finals brings together two of Europe’s most storied clubs as they chase a place in the final.
Real Madrid and Manchester City meet again in the Champions League semi-finals, a rematch that mirrors last season’s dramatic encounter. A year earlier, Real Madrid produced a memorable comeback at the Bernabéu, overpowering Pep Guardiola’s team in a night full of drama and finishing with a memorable march to the final, where they later defeated Liverpool.
DIRECTLY | FOLLOW THE REAL MADRID VS MANCHESTER CITY CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SEMI-FINALS
Times change, and so do the narratives. Madrid will host the first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, where City arrives with the intention of avenging past blows. The Spanish side arrives refreshed in one sense, having recently clinched the Copa del Rey against Osasuna, a validation of their domestic consistency that adds momentum to an already packed schedule.
Militao sidelined in Madrid; Modric and Ake among the doubts
In the buildup to the tie, Carlo Ancelotti faces a defensive hit with Eder Militao suspended, forcing Antonio Rüdiger back into a central pairing. Luka Modric’s participation remains in question as he nursed minor concerns, while Manchester City’s Nathan Aké is also carrying a niggle that could determine his availability for the crucial legs ahead. Both managers are weighing their options carefully as they prepare for a double-header that could decide which team advances to the final match of the season.
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When and where is Real Madrid vs Manchester City?
Where to watch Real Madrid vs Manchester City?
TV and channel: options to watch live coverage
As with past campaigns, the Champions League is a premium package in several markets, with broadcasters offering a range of viewing options. In many regions, subscription services are needed to access live coverage and on-demand replays. The matchup is typically shown through a combination of dedicated sports networks and streaming platforms that hold the official rights, with various bundles designed to fit different viewing setups.
Subscription services often include multiple tiers, allowing fans to add related channels and packages that cover domestic leagues alongside the Champions League. These bundles can include additional perks such as multi-device access, cloud DVR, and enhanced streaming quality, depending on the provider and country.
Fans should check the official broadcaster’s offerings in their country to determine which package best suits their needs, including options for households, single-device streaming, or mobile-only plans.
Streaming platforms provide flexibility for fans who cannot watch on television. The official apps and web portals enable live streaming, on-demand replays, and highlights, with the possibility to switch between devices and pick up where they left off. Availability may vary by region, but most providers support cross-device access so viewers can follow the match from a phone, tablet, laptop, or smart TV.
For those who prefer local language commentary, many broadcasters offer multiple language tracks and accessible accessibility features, ensuring fans can enjoy the match in a comfortable setup. The schedule and access details are updated ahead of each leg to reflect any venue changes, broadcast windows, or streaming windows that may apply in different regions.
Note: content rights and availability are subject to change, so viewers are encouraged to verify current offerings with their local broadcasters and streaming services as matchday approaches.
In this semifinal context, both sides bring a mix of proven pedigree and current form. Real Madrid’s domestic success and European pedigree carry them forward, while Manchester City’s depth, tactical flexibility, and recent experiences in high-stakes knockout games keep them in the hunt. The first leg at the Bernabéu is likely to be a tightly contested affair, with tactical battles between the camps that have become familiar in recent seasons. The second leg at the Etihad Stadium will offer City the home advantage and the chance to push through to a final that would cap another strong campaign.