Real Madrid: 5 players who must shine against Cadiz

Real Madrid RB Nacho Fernandez

With Dani Carvajal and Alvaro Odriozola still recovering from injuries, Nacho Fernandez remains the logical starter at right back for Real Madrid. Eder Militao is still recovering, too, so there is no real alternative to Nacho besides right winger Lucas Vazquez.

Nacho wasn’t bad against Levante before the break in 2-0 win, though he was clearly the weak link of the Real Madrid defense. Opposing teams love to try and exploit his lack of pace, and Levante have the right forwards and playing styles to do that.

Still, Nacho bent, but he did not break. The man’s experience and composure speak volumes, and they make him a good emergency option on the flanks. His passing and technique help overcome his lack of athleticism offensively, though he does not nearly offer the same potency that Carvajal and Odriozola can attacking-wise.

He shouldn’t be exploited by Cadiz on Saturday. All Nacho needs to do is play calm, avoid making mistakes, and be a defensive rock on that right side. Cadiz man Jorge Pombo won’t make it easy, but Nacho should have this one covered. After all, he had some big performance for Los Blancos in 2019-2020. Nacho has his flaws, but Real can count on him.