Real Madrid seeks out a chance to play in the Champions League final when it meets Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday at 2:45 p.m. EST.

The first game between these clubs was an uneventful 0-0 game that saw Madrid dominate possession and generate chances. Joe Hart proved the difference, making a plethora of great saves to keep his team in the contest.

Manchester City Struggles

Manchester City has endured a rough season overall. While the semifinals berth is considered a bit success for the English side, the team blew its big chance to make an impact. City finished the first leg with a whopping one shot on target and four overall. That is not the recipe for success. The Citizens were outplayed in every possible facet of the game including, possession, pass success rate, aerial battles, dribbles (24-9 in Madrid's favor) and corner kicks.

David Silva looks like he might not be available for the tie and the team is on a two-game winless streak following a 4-2 loss on Sunday at Southampton.

Manuel Pellegrini is a lame duck, but he is sure to try and bounce back against his former team as Manchester looks to salvage its season.

Ronaldo to Boost Real Madrid

Real Madrid meanwhile should get some boost from the return of superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Portuguese star was not available in the first leg due to injury and has missed his last three with Madrid. He will be back on Tuesday and should pose a huge threat to Hart and company. Ronaldo has 16 Champions League goal this season and is just one away from tying his record 17 and two away from breaking the record yet again. Ronaldo has scored a whopping three hattricks in this year's tournament, more than he has ever scored in the tournament in a single year; his previous best was one hat trick.

Bale's Potency in Ronaldo's Absence

Ronaldo however is not the only player to be weary of. In Ronaldo's absence, Gareth Bale has provided a huge boon for Los Blancos, scoring three goals in three games, including two game winners in La Liga. He has been clutch when needed and has also been particularly effective through the air where he leads all players across Europe in headed goals. Bale had a decent first leg, but with Ronaldo back, he should have more space to navigate, making him all the more dangerous.

Prediction

Ronaldo scores a couple of goals and Madrid runs away with the game, winning 4-1

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