Champions League: EPL Power Rankings in Second Legs
By Orri Benatar
The only reasons they get third in this ranking are scoring a goal, and not needing to win this game. City’s 2-1 loss to Basel at the Etihad was a possibility with a weaker lineup out.
Guardiola knew they clinched the quarterfinals after the 4-0 win in Switzerland. Gabi Jesus’ early goal in Manchester really sealed the deal, but a loss is a loss. It was City’s fourth of the year.
Next: EPL - Mark Hughes could be the saint for Southampton
Manchester City can make history in this competition. They have the squad, tactics, and momentum to get to the final and lift the Champions League for the first time in club history. In order to do that, they could use an easier opponent in the quarterfinals.
Guardiola will watch the draw tomorrow hoping for Sevilla or Roma. Sevilla is probably the weakest team in the draw and I would expect City to annihilate them. Man City’s toughest draw would be against Real Madrid or Bayern Munich.
Both teams relentless attack might prove troublesome for Guardiola’s defense. No matter who they get, Man City is capable of beating any team in Europe, including Madrid, Bayern, or even Barcelona.