Real Madrid will have a sensation in their hearts when they go to Riyadh Air Metropolitano. The will to win and the ability to secure the most challenging matchup of the season. With a goal advantage, the team understands that it will not be enough to keep the hosts at bay. They will charge quickly and with great force.
It is well acknowledged that the game will be difficult. Carlo Ancelotti's team will have to put in a lot of work, exhaust themselves, and join the fight with the will to win it all. This victory over Atletico Madrid may as well be the match that would secure the knockout stages and, eventually, the most sought-after award of all.
But this is Real Madrid CF. And it's the Champions League. There is no reason why this match should finish in a defeat. And t here are practically three reasons why the Merengues will undoubtedly win.
Real Madrid's midfield is finally back on track
Don't get me wrong, Real Madrid played well in the first leg, but there were definitely areas where they fell short. And some or most of it came from the midfield. With injuries and consistency concerns among multiple players, a lot was lost by in there, allowing Atletico Madrid to take control of the game and at least decrease their deficit.
But that will not be the case this time. Los Blancos will return to the Metropolitano with what may be their strongest midfield combination yet. Jude Bellingham, for example, is back in action and better than ever after missing the last game due to suspension. The Englishman enjoys this competition, and being ruled out of a big game will push him harder and more strongly.
Aurelien Tchouameni has also joined the roster. After being booed a few times in previous games owing to his lack of form and continuously erratic performances, which harmed his place on the squad, the French guard is now back to his best. He's back to running, making heavy tackles, and leading the team from the center. He has been in decent form, if not at his best, in recent games and will approach the second leg in the same spirit.
The magical Luka Modric is showing no signs of slowing down, and his direction will undoubtedly be crucial in sailing through this game. Along with a recovered Fede Valverde, Real Madrid's midfield will be packed and ready to face the fearsome opponent.