The 2023/24 UEFA Champions League group stage round of games is nearing an end , six teams have already qualified with many more going to join this evening. Real Madrid, Manchester City and Bayern Munich were among those who booked their spot in the knockout stage with two matches to spare, with Harry Kane and Co certain to finish top of their section no matter what happens on matchdays five and six.
In group D and G, Real Sociedad and Inter already through, while City and RB Leipzig are sure of progressing after matchday 5
Manchester City head coach, Pep Guardiola has emphasized the importance of his team locking down top spot in their Champions League group.
They and Leipzig have already clinched spots in the knockout stage, but first place in the pool remains up for grabs.
“We have to win or draw,” said Guardiola. “The first step is done for both sides so congratulations to RB Leipzig to qualify for the next round in February.
“It is important to finish first. We believe that when we play the last 16, [having] the second leg at home is not decisive but an advantage and we have to take it.”
City has every reason to be optimistic. Leipzig are fifth in the German Bundesliga, 11 points behind league leaders Bayer Leverkusen, while City have not lost at home since November 2022.
Guardiola delivered a pessimistic message about a number of fitness issues affecting his squad.
Meanwhile, AC Milan manager, Stefano Pioli is expecting big things from Samuel Chukwueze in Today’s UEFA Champions League clash with Borussia Dortmund.
Chukwueze impressed in Milan’s 1-0 home win against Fiorentina last Saturday.
The Nigeria international started the game and was in action for 90 minutes.
Pioli was happy with the Nigeria international’s performance against Fiorentina.
“I was happy with his (Chukwueze) performance on Saturday,” the Italian told a press conference on Monday.
“He worked a lot for the team; he found himself in the right positions. He also had a difficult start due to an injury. Now, in my opinion, he’s fine.