Real Madrid will look to forget their hammering against Paris Saint Germain in the first round of fixtures in the Champions League, and Zidane’s men will look to bounce back against the Belgian heavyweights, Club Brugge this week. The Galacticos are coming into this clash on the back of a goalless draw against Atletico Madrid as they sit on the top of the table in the La Liga.
Club Brugge were held to a 0-0 draw against Galatasaray at the Jan Breydel. Madrid will obviously go in as the favourites at the Santiago Bernabeu, and anything less than a win would heap more pressure on Zinedine Zidane whose side have made an inconsistent start to the season so far.
Team News: Marco Asensio might be lucky to play again this season. The Spaniard is a long term absentee. Isco has missed the last few games with a hamstring problem and wasn’t involved in the clash against Atletico Madrid. He is closing in on a return but could be doubtful for this tie. Marcelo is expected to recover for this tie. Summer signing Ferland Mendy is likely to miss out.
Real Madrid predicted lineup vs Club Brugge
Formation (4-3-3)
Defence
Thibaut Courtois will be an obvious pick in goal for the Spanish giants. Sergio Ramos is going to play alongside his French partner Raphael Varane in central defence. Marcelo could make a comeback to the lineup and might start in place of Nacho as the left-back. The right-back spot is expected to be occupied by Dani Carvajal.
Midfield
Brazilian midfielder Casemiro will be in his typical defensive midfield role. He will look to shield the back four and form a base of attack for Los Blancos. Luka Modric featured off the bench in the derby, but we expect him to start in this Champions League clash at home. James Rodrguez might complete the midfield three as he could start ahead of Toni Kroos. Real Madrid are expected to dominate the game so Zidane might opt for a more attack-minded player in midfield.
Attack
Eden Hazard is yet to showcase what he is capable of, but he will get another chance to impress on the left flank. Vinícius Júnior should be fresh as he didn’t play a part in the last game, so he is likely to get the nod ahead of Gareth Bale on the right-wing. Karim Benzema is expected to lead the line for the Galacticos up top.
