September 19, (THEWILL) – The highly anticipated 2023/2024 UEFA Champions League group stage commences on Tuesday, bringing excitement to football supporters across the globe.
Following Manchester City’s historic triumph last season, the competition resumes with much fanfare, as Europe’s elite clubs battle on the ultimate stage. The reigning champions start their title defence against Red Star Belgrade at the Etihad Stadium. City recently maintained their flawless beginning to the Premier League season with a 3-1 victory over West Ham United, despite initially falling behind in that match. Erling Haaland, last campaign’s leading scorer, will be integral to City’s aspirations this year.
In contrast, Red Star Belgrade have struggled recently, losing two of their last three domestic fixtures after initially performing strongly. Defensive vulnerabilities have emerged, conceding six goals in their previous three matches. They enter the clash as underdogs, facing a formidable Manchester City side even if without stars like Kevin De Bruyne, Mateo Kovacic, Jack Grealish and John Stones.
Red Star’s manager, Barak Bakhar, is predicted to deploy a back-three system against Guardiola’s team. City, buoyed by their robust start, will be aiming to commence their UCL defence positively against the Serbian club, notwithstanding some injury concerns. Kick-off is at 8pm tonight.
With thrilling matchups in store, the return of the Champions League brings anticipation and suspense across Europe’s top leagues. As the continent’s heavyweights clash, supporters eagerly await the emergence of new heroes on club football’s biggest stage.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
