Real Madrid prepare to take on Valencia in a slight “revenge” match after the last game between them saw three (out of four) penalties scored by Valencia in a strange 4-1 win. This time around, Los Blancos seem a little more prepared, which is ironic given that many of their players are still recovering from injuries. Even if any of them make the squad list on matchday, it may be too soon for them to get a starting position on the night.
Goalkeeper
Thibaut Courtois will want a repeat of what happened in the game against Getafe where not only did the Belgian get a clean sheet, but the team were in control enough for him not to have to do much on the night. That could be a little more difficult to achieve against Valencia but he’ll be ready regardless.
Defenders
Due to the number of injuries to the team and even with Marcelo being added to that list, all signs point to the second consecutive match where Zidane will field three defenders. However, he may be forced to take a little bit of a risk. With two players returning, the manager may use that to give them both time on the pitch.
Lucas Vazquez could be chosen as the starter at right-back where Dani Carvajal would come in for him as the time goes on. It’s too early for either player to be playing for the full 90 minutes. In the center, the partnership of Nacho Fernandez and Raphael Varane will continue as Eder Militao and Sergio Ramos are both out injured. On the left, Ferland Mendy will start and will want to build on a very impressive performance last time out.
Midfielders
One player we can almost always guarantee to start is Carlos Casemiro and after possibly one of his best performances last week, he will want to continue on that. In front of him, Luka Modric will go back to teaming up with Toni Kroos who has finished serving his suspension and is back with the team. It’s still very doubtful to see Isco start on the night even though he came on as a substitute against Getafe and has been training with the team regularly.
Forwards
Up front, we don’t expect too many surprises from Zidane. On the left wing, Vinicius Junior will have to continue building on the form that we saw from him last Tuesday while Marco Asensio will be on the opposite side. Karim Benzema will be our striker on the night as usual. After finally getting on the scoresheet last week, he’ll build on that and a goal against Valencia will obviously help the team but it will be beneficial for the Frenchman as well who has found himself in the media recently regarding a contract extension.
Full Predicted Lineup
Thibaut Courtois, Lucas Vazquez, Nacho Fernandez, Raphael Varane, Ferland Mendy, Carlos Casemiro, Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, Marco Asensio, Vinicius Junior, Karim Benzema
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