Real Madrid Predicted Lineup vs. Atletico Madrid: Karim Benzema or Luka Jovic?

LW Vinicius Junior

Vinicius Junior once created a game-winning goal against Atletico Madrid as a substitute. Now, he is far more than a super-sub. He is a superstar. Nobody is making more of a difference for Real Madrid each and every week than Vinicius. He will be itching to get on the scoresheet against Real’s great crosstown rivals and help his team score a massive win in the title race. If Karim Benzema cannot return, then Vini’s importance to Real Madrid will be further magnified.

CF Karim Benzema

Although I could see Luka Jovic starting and Real Madrid playing things safe with Karim Benzema, the reality is that if there is any chance Benz can play, the legendary Madrid No. 9 will make sure he is in the XI. He is the kind of player who will do anything to help Real Madrid, especially in the biggest matches. And with Barcelona hurting, El Derbi is now the biggest match in the title race for the Merengue club. After what he did in the last Derbi at less than 100 percent, don’t be surprised if Benzema has a big say on Sunday night’s match at the Bernabeu.

RW Marco Asensio

While Rodrygo Goes has been the preferred option in recent matches for Carlo Ancelotti due to the young winger’s consistency and defensive contributions, El Derbi likely calls for the out-of-nowhere magic that Marco Asensio’s left foot can produce. You know, like what we saw with his game-sealing curler off the bench. That is a trademark shot for Asensio, and Ancelotti will surely encourage the Andalusian to go for goal as frequently as possible on Sunday night.

Asensio is one of those players who needs to score in order to help the team. He will have to work hard against Yannick Carrasco, who shredded Real in the last Derbi despite Lucas Vazquez’s best efforts. However, I think Ancelotti will take the possible defensive risk for the upside of a goal against Simeone’s side.