The Real Champs
Fansided

Predicting Real Madrid’s starting lineup for the Copa del Rey semifinal first-leg

By Mushtaq Nizamdin

MADRID, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 5: (L-R) Thibaut Courtois of Real Madrid, Luka Modric of Real Madrid, Marcelo of Real Madrid, Raphael Varane of Real Madrid during the Training Real Madrid at the Ciudad deportiva de Valdebebas on February 5, 2019 in Madrid Spain (Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images)
MADRID, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 5: (L-R) Thibaut Courtois of Real Madrid, Luka Modric of Real Madrid, Marcelo of Real Madrid, Raphael Varane of Real Madrid during the Training Real Madrid at the Ciudad deportiva de Valdebebas on February 5, 2019 in Madrid Spain (Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images) /
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MADRID, SPAIN – FEBRUARY 3: Sergio Ramos of Real Madrid during the La Liga Santander match between Real Madrid v Deportivo Alaves at the Santiago Bernabeu on February 3, 2019 in Madrid Spain (Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images)
MADRID, SPAIN – FEBRUARY 3: Sergio Ramos of Real Madrid during the La Liga Santander match between Real Madrid v Deportivo Alaves at the Santiago Bernabeu on February 3, 2019 in Madrid Spain (Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images) /

Defense

Dani Carvajal

While Alvaro Odiriozola has been phenomenal in the Copa Del Rey, like the Navas decision, going with experience is important when playing away in a big match like this. A good balance and understanding of the game as it happens will be crucial. Carvajal has returned to fine form this season and a strong performance on the flanks can make or break the match.

Raphael Varane

Back from suspension, there is no stronger option to have alongside Sergio Ramos. Simply put, the Frenchman will be a part of the starting XI for seasons to come. No sense in trying to reinvent the wheel.

Sergio Ramos

The captain of the team doesn’t often get overlooked, especially not Sergio Ramos. Ramos has played plenty of Clásico’s and understands the tenacity and environment. His experience will bring a calming presence to the team despite his badass, guns blazing attitude.

Sergio Reguilon

Marcelo has been far from his best self this campaign and given the seriousness of the match, now is not the time to start experimenting. Reguilon has been a common factor in recent weeks for a reason. Despite his age, he has been clinical, this past weekend against Alavés is a great example of that.

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