Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid collide against each other in the second game of the group stage of the Champions League. The hosts Borussia Dortmund had little trouble winning 6-0 over Legia Warsaw in their first game whereas the Champions League holders Real Madrid were minutes or even seconds away from a devastating loss against Sporting CP in their first game. Cristiano Ronaldo, who is still looking to rediscover top form after returning from injury, saved the day with a rare free kick goal and Alvaro Morata and James Rodriguez combined for the winner at the death.
Real Madrid had a 100% start to their La Liga campaign but had two big stumbles in the last week which brought rivals Barcelona back in the picture. The Los Blancos had to settle for a 1-1 draw with Villareal in the midweek while they were held 2-2 by minnows Las Palmas on Saturday. Dortmund, on the other hand, have won all of their last four games since they lost 1-0 to Red Bull Leipzig earlier this month.
In many ways, this match could very well define which side wins the group. Here is the predicted Real Madrid lineup against Borussia Dortmund.
Defence
Keylor Navas is likely to get back to the starting XI after a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Kiko Casilla did a decent job under the bar in the Costa Rican’s absence but it is a big boost to Zidane to see his first-choice keeper back into the team.
Dani Carvajal is likely to start in the right-back position. With Pepe out injured, Raphael Varane is likely to partner skipper Sergio Ramos at the heart of the defence. Real Madrid will miss bombarding full-back Marcelo against Dortmund and in his absence, Nacho Fernandez will start in the left-back position.
Midfield
With Casemiro out injured, Toni Kroos is likely to start as a defensive midfielder. The German is not a defensive midfielder by trait but Zidane has no other option. Luka Modric will start as one of the box to box midfielders but the Croat’s job will be much harder with Kroos being less involved with his creativity.
James Rodriguez is likely to start in midfield.
Attack
Cristiano Ronaldo is yet to show his true colours this season after coming back from injury. However, the Portuguese superstar still remains an undisputed starter on the left flank.
Gareth Bale will start on the right flank. Karim Benzema is likely to keep his place up front.
