The City trio are all already through to the semi-finals of the competition with their nations Austria and Portugal after both teams claimed maximum points from their games against Israel and Hungary.
In booking their places in the last four, both sides have secured slots in next year’s FIFA World u20 Cup in New Zealand.
Lopes and Bytyqi have scored two goals apiece in the tournament so far and they will be putting their close friendship aside for one night only in Felcsut, Hungary on Friday.
“It’s going to be a special moment for me,” Bytyqi told UEFA.com. “He’s [Lopes is] going out on loan so I’m not going to see him now for a year and he’s one of my best friends. We’re going to enjoy the last game against each other, although hopefully we can meet again in the final.
“We are more focused on the semi-finals than this game as we know it’s going to be hard no matter who we play.
“We’re focusing on Monday, but we still go into this game with our same mentality. We’ll try to win it as that would give us even more confidence.
“People from Austria are coming out to watch us and lots of journalists are here too so we see it means something for the country as well. It’s one of the best moments in my life to be here, and to have started so well is unbelievable.”
Bytyqi also revealed that his club boss, Patrick Vieira, is also keeping tabs on his progress - along with a certain City no.10.
“The best moment was when Patrick called. He told me that the first game is always the most important of a tournament and he wished me and all the team the best of luck. I’ve been texting [Edin] Džeko as well, and the City assistant coach. I hope they’ll be watching me.”
Two of Germany, Ukraine or Serbia await in the semi-finals.
We’ll have a round-up of tonight’s match and bring you news on who Austria and Portugal will face in the last four here on mcfc.co.uk tomorrow.
