Manchester City can take a huge step forward in making sure they advance to the knockout stage of the UEFA Champions League with a victory over Serie A side Napoli on Tuesday.
These two teams played to a 1-1 draw in both club's Group A opener on September 14.
City has really improved in all competitions since that September matchup, and come into this match with a ton of confidence. They have a five point lead ahead of Manchester United atop the Premier League table.
With a win City can take a five-point advantage over Napoli, but a loss would take Napoli over City in the Group A table, eight points to seven.
Let's look at everything you need to know about this important Champions League matchup.
Where: San Paolo, Naples, Italy
Watch: Fox Soccer Plus in America, Sky Sports HD2 in England
Live Stream: Foxsoccer.tv
When: Tuesday, November 22 at 2:45 p.m. EST
Player to watch for Manchester City: Mario Balotelli
Mario Balotelli is a supreme talent but he is not always in the game mentally. With a great match against Manchester United on October 23, Balotelli proved he deserved a place in the starting XI.
Balotelli has a great chance to shine in his return to Italy, and help secure a place in the knockout stage for City.
Player to watch for Napoli: Edinson Cavani
Edinson Cavani is an elite forward and leads Napoli with six goals in all competitions. Cavani scored in the two team's 1-1 draw in September, and will ignite the Napoli crowd with his exciting play and passion.
Cavani is Napoli's greatest scoring threat, and must play well if the Italian side want to pull of an upset.
Key Matchup: Cavani vs. Manchester City centerbacks
Cavani is the goal-scoring threat for Napoli and his size and strength will test the Manchester City center backs.
City captain Vincent Kompany will have to play an excellent game to contain Cavani and limit his effectiveness.
If City can make Cavani struggle and fight for every chance, then Napoli will have a very difficult time winning the match.
What they're saying
Due to the fear of trouble with Napoli supporters, Manchester City has urged fans not to wear club memorabilia, including scarves among other things.
Here is part of a letter signed by operations manager Steve Sayer, via the Guardian:
"We would also advise against wearing club colours away from the game, particularly when taking public transport."
Prediction: Manchester City wins 4-1
Manchester City has dramatically improved since their early season draw with Napoli, and with Yaya Toure and Mario Balotelli in prime form, they will dominate the Serie A side from the opening whistle.
Napoli will score a late consolation, but won't be able to contain a talented City defense.
San Diego Padres San Francisco Giants St. Louis Cardinals Washington Nationals Jonathan Albaladejo Andrew Brackman
No comments:
Post a Comment