After dominating Valencia, Real Madrid have another big game ahead.
Real Madrid let go of top spot after a surprising loss to Real Betis before football was suspended and now they have a chance to regain that spot after Barcelona’s 0-0 draw against Sevilla. Will they be able to grab that opportunity?
A visit to the Anoeta is never a preferred destination but the hunger plus the lack of fans may make this game a little bit easier than we’re used to. It’s also important to remember that they were the team responsible for us not being in the Copa del Rey but times have changed and Real Madrid will field a stronger team in La Liga. However, beating Real Sociedad is never an easy task regardless of their current form. In fact, that may actually make them more dangerous.
Predicted Lineup:
Goalkeeper
There is no need for any risks to be taken and Thibaut Courtois has been in very good form recently. Therefore, he’ll be starting the match knowing that this will probably be the most difficult game since the return to play.
Defenders
With Dani Carvajal being our only right-back option, he will be starting there after a very good performance against Valencia. In the center, our best defender so far this season, Raphael Varane, will be slotted alongside Sergio Ramos as they hope to continue their great form.
Looking at the left-back position, it’s a little more difficult to predict exactly what Zidane will have in mind but judging from his recent decisions, it may be fair to say that Marcelo will make a return after being benched for Ferland Mendy during the last match.
Midfielders
With Carlos Casemiro being undroppable by Zidane, the Brazilian will start with Toni Kroos being put in front of him. Both players have been putting in great performances over the last two matches. I think we’ll be seeing Federico Valverde chosen to take up the third place in the midfield trio instead of Luka Modric for the night. The Croatian has played against Eibar and Valencia and Zidane may not want to risk overplaying him. If needed, he’ll come off the bench.
Forwards
Our forwards have been doing brilliantly so far especially when it comes to Eden Hazard and Karim Benzema. They have both been able to form a great partnership and the rewards are clear for anyone to see. The big question though comes on the right flank as it’s unclear exactly what Zidane will have in mind.
A betting person may place their money on Marco Asensio getting his first start of the season after a memorable cameo performance against Valencia but the safer option may actually be Rodrygo Goes. The Brazilian is a favorite of Zidane’s but it remains to be seen if he’ll get his second start in three games.
Full Predicted Lineup:
Thibaut Courtois, Dani Carvajal, Raphael Varane, Sergio Ramos, Marcelo, Carlos Casemiro, Toni Kroos, Federico Valverde, Rodrygo Goes, Eden Hazard, Karim Benzema