Real Madrid vs. Elche Starting XI Prediction for Matchday 22 of LaLiga

CM Toni Kroos

Toni Kroos is another obvious start. The Real Madrid center midfielder is needed against a side like Elche, because if he is not there to provide control, Elche could easily turn this into a chaotic shootout. Those kinds of games don’t always favor Real, as they can be unpredictable. Just look at the time they drew Levante 3-3, even though the Frogs are last in LaLiga.

The German had a solid match against Elche this past Thursday, even if he was not spectacular. Expect another solid performance in this battle at the Bernabeu.

DM Casemiro

Casemiro’s day of rest didn’t go as planned, as Carlo Ancelotti did call the No. 6’s name from the bench for a significant cameo in a match that went to extra time. Despite being subbed off, Eduardo Camavinga was fantastic, again, but this spot is clearly Casemiro’s. The world-class defensive midfielder will bring steel to the pitch against an Elche side that sure likes its extracurricular activities, shall we say, judging by the calls we saw in the Copa del Rey.

The key for Casemiro will be swift transition defense and turning defense to offense. He can be pivotal to winning the match, especially if his ball security is without incident.

CM Luka Modric

Probably Real Madrid’s best player to start the year 2022, Luka Modric also came off the bench against Elche, and he was honestly more impactful than his long-time midfielder partner. Modric has injected quality on both ends of the pitch throughout the season, turning up his performances over the last couple of months. A lock to start this Sunday, Modric is a standout candidate to be Man of the Match. It is hard to look at this Elche lineup and see anyone who can match the man’s quality. His work in tight spaces will be vital to Real’s success.