Real Madrid vs Manchester City : Five things to look for

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MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – APRIL 26: Goalkeeper Joe Hart of Manchester City applauds the home fans following the 0-0 draw during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final first leg match between Manchester City FC and Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium on April 26, 2016 in Manchester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) /

3. Will Joe Hart save Manchester City again?

Manchester City’s defense has been ravaged by injuries and poor form. Captain Vincent Kompany has been out with injury from time to time this season and has forced Man City to play backups Eliaquim Mangala and Martín Demichelis quite a while. Both backups have struggled with poor decision-making in the box and combined with Nicholas Otamendi’s unique ability to turn himself mentally at times during a game, disaster strikes. They were cut open by Southampton as Sadio Mane and the Saints shot four goals past Man City’s goal.

It almost happened in the first leg against Real Madrid when Pepe found himself with the ball at this feet right in front of goal. But thankfully for Man City fans, Joe Hart spread himself out and saved what would have been a crucial away goal. Hart has been the savior for the Citizens in the UCL for the past couple of seasons. From denying Pepe to saving a Lionel Messi penalty, he has done it all. He has established himself as one of the best keepers in Europe and has earned himself the starting role in England’s National Team.

With Real Madrid likely to be more attacking in the Bernabeau, Hart will have to be in top form to help keep a clean sheet.

Next: 2. Gareth Bale

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