Real Madrid are peaking at the right time as they cannot afford to slip up any further. A 3-2 victory over Atalanta keeps them alive in the Champions League and well-placed for playoff rounds. Their next game is against Rayo Vallecano in the La Liga this weekend.
The Whites are on the points table with 36 points after 16 rounds of play. They are just two points off the table toppers Barcelona but have an extra game in hand. Hence, Carlo Ancelotti’s men will be motivated to secure all three points.
Thibaut Courtois continues to be the primary goalkeeper for Real Madrid. He is set to get another start between the sticks. Lucas Vazquez is doing decent enough as the right-back and there is no reason to change him.
Antonio Rudiger and Aurelien Tchouameni remain intact at the centre of the backline. However, the latter gave away a silly penalty against Atalanta and needs to be more careful in the box. Left-back Fran Garcia is showing promising signs and hence retains his spot.
Midfield
The holding midfield duo of Dani Ceballos and Federico Valverde is working well for the Whites. Hence, Carlo Ancelotti wouldn’t want to risk changing that.
Attack
Jude Bellingham should be fit to participate despite having concerns about his fitness. However, Kylian Mbappe will surely miss this tie after picking up a muscular problem.
Brahim Diaz continues to operate on the right wing while Vinicius Jr is unchallenged for the left flank role. As Rodrygo is also back from the injury, he is expected to lead the offensive line this time.
Ferland Mendy, Eduardo Camavinga, Eder Militao, Dani Carvajal and David Alaba are all confirmed absentees for this fixture due to injuries.