Manchester City and Urawa Red Diamonds meet for their semi-finals match in the Club World Cup, with aims of entering the finals. These two teams are actually a champion squad, considering their finishes last season in their respective leagues. Urawa is the defending champions of the AFC Champions League. Meanwhile, Man City is the defending champions of the UEFA Champions League. Moreover, this is just the first time that these two teams will meet. Additionally, coming into this match, Man City suffered just one loss in their last 13 matches across all contests. As for Urawa, they are in a good form, winning three of their last four matches, giving them confidence. Their first meeting is on December 20, 2023, at 2:00 AM (GMT+8).
Manchester City
Manchester City have struggled to boost Christmas spirits in the Etihad, dropping points for the fifth time in six Premier League matches during their visit to Crystal Palace. Despite efforts from City’s players, they were ultimately defeated by the champions, with goals from Jack Grealish and Rico Lewis. The treble winners’ record now stands at just three wins from eight games. City will be vying for international glory for the first time due to their Champions League triumph in 2022-23, but the draw marked their eighth game without a clean sheet. The Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup holders are the firm favorites to add a new honour to their collection, with an Al Ahly or Fluminense-sized test in the final.
Man City manager Guardiola faces three injury concerns for the semi-final, including Kevin De Bruyne’s hamstring injury, Erling Haaland’s foot injury, and Jeremy Doku’s muscle injury. Julian Alvarez will be City’s main marksman, and Guardiola should consider making changes for the semi-final.
Urawa Red Diamonds
Urawa Red Diamonds secured a spot in the 2023 Club World Cup by reaching the showpiece match against Leon, who were the runners-up in the Saudi Pro League. Despite the lack of atmosphere, Alex Schalk scored the winning goal off the bench in the 78th minute, and the Dutch striker even spurned chances to add to his side’s advantage in the closing stages. Leon captain William Tesillo took the walk of shame for two bookable offences, as the Japanese crop advanced to their second semi-final from three Club World Cup appearances. Skorza’s side would have welcomed a break from domestic and continental duties for a Saudi Arabian sojourn, as their AFC Champions League crown defense ended in the group stage earlier this month.
Urawa’s semi-final victory against Leon was a loss for the Red Devils due to injuries to Akimoto, Sekine, and Okubo. Skorza’s full-backs are well-stocked, with Sakai and Schalk replacing Okubo and Kante in the final third. Schalk made a cameo appearance, while Kante will retire at the end of the season.
Prediction:
Manchester City (2.5)
Odds: -0.95
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