The best in England meets the best in Czechia in Wednesday's Champions League clash, as Manchester City host Sparta Prague at the Etihad Stadium in the league phase.
The Sky Blues started their campaign with a draw against Inter Milan, the team they defeated in the final two years ago. However, they bounced back in their second game with a 4-0 win against Slovan Bratislava in Slovakia, where James McAtee scored his first goal for the club.
Sparta Prague, meanwhile, are having a great season in the Czech First League. In Europe, they are level on points with City after two strong results. They began with an impressive 3-0 win over RB Salzburg and followed it up with a 1-1 draw away in Stuttgart.
The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match, kickoff times and the latest lineup news.
Here's how to watch this Champions League match in the U.S.:
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After sitting out seven games due to a muscle injury, Nathan Ake remained on the bench as an unused substitute against Wolves. The defender may be involved in some capacity against Sparta Prague, but is unlikely to start, with Josko Gvardiol likely to retain his spot at left-back.
Erling Haaland leads Manchester City's attack, consistently scoring and stepping up in crucial moments. Jack Grealish adds creativity and flair on the wings, while Bernardo Silva's sharp ball control sets the tempo and sparks their forward play. In midfield, Ilkay Gundogan bring valuable experience and defensive strength, playing a key role in City's overall strategy.
Man City predicted XI (4-2-3-1, right to left): Ederson (GK) -- Lewis, Akanji, Dias, Gvardiol -- Kovacic, Gundogan -- Silva, Foden, Grealish -- Haaland.
Injured: Ake, De Bruyne, Bobb, Rodri.
Suspended: None
Imanol Garcia is sidelined with a knee injury, while Elias Cobbaut (illness) has yet to make his season debut for the Maroons and is doubtful to feature on Wednesday.
Martin Vitik missed the last domestic match due to suspension, but he's available to return for the clash against Man City and may step in for Asger Sorensen in central defense, potentially partnering with Filip Panak and Jaroslav Zeleny in a back three.
Kaan Kairinen is a key player in midfield, controlling the game and setting the tempo with precise passing. Defender Asger Sørensen is vital at the back, providing strong resistance against tough offenses. In goal, Peter Vindahl Jensen is crucial, often securing clean sheets in tightly fought matches.
Sparta Prague predicted XI (3-4-3, right to left): Vindahl (GK) -- Vitik, Panak, Zeleny -- Preciado, Laci, Kairinen, Rynes -- Birmancevic, Rrahmani, Haraslin.
Injured: Cobbaut, Garcia.
Suspended: None
Manchester City dominated their last match against Slovan Bratislava, racking up 15 corners over the 90 minutes, with seven coming in the first half alone. Given their strong home record, it would be a major shock if the Citizens don't secure a win against Sparta Prague, who are seen as a weaker opponent.
Goals are expected in this match, possibly from both teams, as the Cityzens have conceded in four of their last five games. This could give Sparta Prague a chance to find the net. However, it should still be a fairly comfortable night for City.