Despite a dreadful European run, Barcelona have maintained their supremacy in domestic competitions. The runaway La Liga leaders have dominated the El Classico so far this campaign, but they must prepare for another stern test as they are set to host Real Madrid in the return leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final.
The Blancos suffered a 1-0 defeat at Santiago Bernabeu when these two sides locked horns in the reverse tie. Moreover, they were humbled by the Catalans in the Supercopa de España final as well as the most recent league clash a couple of weeks back. A result on Wednesday night would amplify their ‘treble’ hopes, however, the champions of Europe won’t allow them a free run at Camp Nou.
Predicted 4-3-3 Real Madrid Lineup To Face Barcelona
Defence
Andriy Lunin was impressive between the sticks during Thibaut Courtois’ injury absence. But he eventually lost his place to the Belgian ‘number 1’ who reclaimed his starting status in mid-February.
Dani Carvajal, who was rested against Real Valladolid on Sunday afternoon, should return to the playing XI for this midweek encounter. Antonio Rudiger remains an injury doubt and the gaffer Carlo Ancelotti is expected to stick with Eder Militao and David Alaba in the heart of the backline. A calf strain has kept Ferland Mendy sidelined, but the versatile Nacho Fernández could deputize as the left fullback after serving a one-game suspension.
Midfield
Nacho’s availability would see Eduardo Camavinga competing again for his preferred midfield role. But he must stay patient for his minutes with fellow countryman Aurélien Tchouaméni likely to operate as the ‘number 6’. His deep-lying status would allow Luka Modric and Toni Kroos to drive the show with their profound experience, vision, creative spark and box-to-box movements. Along with Camavinga, Dani Ceballos might also be involved as a second-half substitute.
AttackÂ
Karim Benzema is getting better with age as he scored a seven-minute hat-trick against Valladolid last weekend. The 35-year-old Frenchman holds all the traits to make a difference versus Barcelona, also the flair and finesse of Vinicius Jr could trouble the home side down the left-hand flank. Federico Valverde should feature from the right ahead of the other wide attacking options in Rodrygo, Lucas Vázquez, Marco Asensio and Eden Hazard. Rodrygo has scored some crucial goals as a ‘super sub’ and it remains to be seen whether the Brazilian finds the net in the decisive moments of this epic battle.
