In the much-anticipated debut of Arda Guler, Real Madrid, with a notably altered lineup, confidently continued their defense of the Copa del Rey trophy. The victory was sealed with goals from Joselu, Brahim Diaz, and Rodrygo.
Carlo Ancelotti's side, with aspirations across four competitions, now shifts its focus to the Spanish Super Cup, a tournament they have clinched twice since the introduction of the four-team format in the 2019-20 season. Despite their impressive track record of 12 Super Cup triumphs overall, they fell short of adding to that tally last season, succumbing to a 3-1 defeat against Barcelona after edging past Valencia in penalties in the semi-finals.
Ahead of a potential final showdown against Barcelona or Osasuna, Real Madrid faces a daunting challenge against their city rivals in the first Super Cup encounter since their 2020 victory via a penalty shootout.
Despite a recent setback against Atletico in September, Real Madrid responded resoundingly, embarking on a 19-game unbeaten streak in all competitions, boasting 16 victories and three draws.
In the buildup to the Super Cup clash, Real Madrid grapples with notable absences. Lucas Vazquez, sidelined due to a muscle injury, joins long-term absentees Thibaut Courtois, Eder Militao, and David Alaba, who are recovering from anterior cruciate ligament injuries. Ferland Mendy is expected to return to the defensive lineup after missing the last three matches due to injury, while Toni Kroos is poised to feature in midfield following his recovery from an ankle ailment.
Vinicius Junior and Aurelien Tchouameni are slated to make their returns to the squad after being rested, with Tchouameni potentially starting on the bench due to stiff competition in Real Madrid's midfield.
As for Atletico, Thomas Lemar remains sidelined with an Achilles injury, while Reinildo Mandava is on duty with the Mozambique squad for the Africa Cup of Nations. Pablo Barrios is included in the traveling squad, although uncertainties linger regarding his readiness for Wednesday's semi-final.
Atletico's starting XI is anticipated to witness the return of Mario Hermoso, Samuel Lino, Koke, Marcos Llorente, and Rodrigo De Paul, who were benched in the previous Copa del Rey victory. Griezmann and Morata, boasting a combined tally of 33 competitive goals this season, are expected to be pivotal attacking assets.
Potential Starting Lineups:
Real Madrid:
Lunin; Carvajal, Rudiger, Nacho, Mendy; Valverde, Kroos, Modric, Bellingham; Rodrygo, Vinicius
Atletico Madrid:
Oblak; Molina, Gimenez, Witsel, Hermoso, Lino; Llorente, Koke, De Paul; Griezmann, Morata
Post a Comment