Madrid is set to pause in anticipation on Tuesday evening as the city’s football titans, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, lock horns in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 at the Santiago Bernabéu. The match is particularly significant for Real Madrid’s Italian coach, Carlo Ancelotti, who faces both challenges and opportunities in his lineup selection.
The most notable absence in Ancelotti’s squad is English international, Jude Bellingham, who serves a one-game suspension. The team also grapples with the loss of Militao, Carvajal, Ceballos, and Vallejo due to injuries. However, amidst the setbacks, a silver lining emerges in the form of Fede Valverde. The versatile player is fit and ready to contribute, expected to kick off as the right back, a position he has proven adept in.
Real Madrid will have Thibaut Courtois guarding their goalposts. Valverde’s expected presence at right back is a strategic move, bolstering the team’s defensive line. The center of the defense will witness a comeback, with Asencio returning to action after missing the Real Betis encounter. Partnering with him is Rüdiger, another formidable force in the defense. On the left back, Ancelotti may deploy either Fran García or Ferland Mendy, adding to the team’s defensive depth.
The midfield will see Tchouameni and Camavinga holding fort. Modric, despite playing the entire game at the Villamarín, is likely to be rested, providing the young guns an opportunity to prove their mettle. The absence of Bellingham opens the door for Rodrygo to assume a pivotal role in the center, with Brahim likely to operate from the right.
On the left flank, Vinicius is set to make a start, while Mbappé is expected to lead Real Madrid’s offensive charge. This lineup aims to balance the gaps left by the key absentees and leverage the strengths of those in action.
This Champions League clash comes after a mixed weekend for both teams. Real Madrid suffered a defeat at the hands of Real Betis, while Atletico Madrid managed a narrow 1-0 victory over Athletic Club at the Estadio Metropolitano. It will be interesting to see how Ancelotti’s men respond to these recent events and what tactical adjustments they make to secure a victory in the crucial upcoming match.