Three reasons why Real Madrid will beat Getafe despite rotations

Thibaut Courtois against a struggling attack

There will be rotations defensively, and Real Madrid are expected to start two backup fullbacks in Alvaro Odriozola and Marcelo. How they juggle the center back situation remains to be seen, but Real will not be starting with their best defensive lineup.

Normally, that would be a concern, especially considering the kinds of mistakes Odri and Marcelo have made in 2020-2021. But against Getafe, I am not as worried.

A big part of that lack of fear stems from the man in goal, Thibaut Courtois. We saw him produce a fine game against Barcelona last weekend in a narrow 2-1 win. And then he made multiple top-drawer saves, including a couple from point-blank range on Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah, to lift Real to a 0-0 draw. Courtois’ clean sheet was superb, and it was a reminder on a big stage that he has a strong case for being the world’s best keeper.

So the world’s best goalkeeper will be going up against a Getafe attack with just two players with five goals in La Liga this season. Yes, Jaime Mata and Angel Rodriguez both have only five goals, which is as many as Casemiro.

Getafe pose more than “zero” threat offensively, as loan acquisitions Takefusa Kubo and Carles Alena are also around. Marc Cucurella is a good player on the left wing, too.

But even Real’s backups should be able to handle them, especially with Courtois in goal. Real Madrid really should not be conceding against Getafe, even considering the rotations. Courtois will make sure of that.