Kamis, 26 Februari 2009
Man City v Copenhagen preview Blues looking for safe progression into the last 16
Manchester City hold the upper hand heading into their Uefa Cup clash with FC Copenhagen on Thursday.
The Blues twice took the lead in the first leg of their last 32 encounter in Denmark, only to come away with a 2-2 draw.
However, two away goals could prove to be priceless as the tie heads to Eastlands.
City will be confident that they can get the job on home soil, though, with Copenhagen having failed to win in their two previous visits to England.
The Blues enter the game unbeaten in their last three outings, with a morale-boosting 1-1 draw away at Liverpool secured last time out.
They have also overcome Danish opposition once already in this season's Uefa Cup, seeing off FC Midtjylland on penalties in the second qualifying round.
Copenhagen, who are coming towards the end of their off-season, remain upbeat, though, and their manager Stale Solbakken believes his team are capable of causing an upset.
"We will be better than we were a week ago. The mood among the players is great as these are two bonus games for us before the season re-starts," he said.
"Perhaps our hopes are not as big as they were before the first game but the last goal at the Parken gives us a chance."
Kompany doubt
City midfielder Vincent Kompany is a major doubt heading into the game as he struggles with a toe injury.
Mark Hughes is hoping the problem will settle down as he is already without Nigel de Jong, who was not registered for the competition.
Shaun Wright Phillips is available again, however, as his domestic ban does not apply to the European tie.
He has a slight ankle injury but is expected to recover in time to take his place in the side.
Copenhagen will hand a late fitness test to striker Cesar Santin after he suffered a slight groin strain in the first leg.
The Danes will also be hoping to call upon two players with prior experience of life in England.
Jesper Gronkjaer and Niclas Jensen can boast the likes of Chelsea, Birmingham, Manchester City and Fulham on their respective CVs.
Langganan:
Posting Komentar (Atom)
Tidak ada komentar:
Posting Komentar