Valladolid-Real Madrid: Likely line-ups and the keys to the match

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Real Madrid, currently leading La Liga, is set to face bottom-placed Real Valladolid this Saturday in a crucial match for both teams. On one side, Carlo Ancelotti’s men aim to solidify their top spot, while Diego Cocca’s squad dreams of securing vital points for their survival in the league. Here are the predicted lineups for the Valladolid vs. Real Madrid clash.

Real Madrid appears unstoppable in early 2025, despite a setback in the Spanish Super Cup final against FC Barcelona. With three consecutive wins in La Liga, including an impressive 4-1 victory over Las Palmas last week, the Merengues have reinforced their status as title favorites. Their recent 5-1 triumph against RB Salzburg in the Champions League further highlights their excellent form.

Led by a Kylian Mbappé at the peak of his powers, Madrid boasts a formidable attack. However, with a packed schedule, Carlo Ancelotti will need to manage his squad wisely, especially with several key players unavailable. The objective is clear: secure three points against Valladolid to maintain pressure on their rivals. Notable absences like Vinicius Junior (suspended) and Eder Militao (injured) haven’t dampened the club’s ambitions. The team is determined to dominate against a struggling opponent.

Valladolid, the Bottom Dwellers Seeking a Miracle

Real Valladolid is enduring a tough season, sitting at the bottom of La Liga. Despite this, hope for survival remains alive. With only five points separating them from safety, Valladolid still dreams of turning their season around.

However, their recent 2-1 loss to Espanyol Barcelona hasn’t helped their cause. Under Diego Cocca, who took over in December, the team has struggled to find momentum. Yet, a positive result against Real Madrid could galvanize the squad for the remainder of the season. The club will rely on home support to attempt an upset, but facing an in-form Madrid side, the task seems daunting.

Predicted Lineups with Doubts Over Jude Bellingham

The predicted lineups offer a glimpse into the strategies both teams might adopt. For Real Madrid, Thibaut Courtois will guard the goal, while Mbappé and Rodrygo will lead the attack in Vinicius Jr’s absence due to suspension. The main uncertainty surrounds Jude Bellingham, who is struggling with a back injury. Valladolid, on the other hand, is expected to field Hein in goal and André up front in hopes of causing an upset.

Real Madrid’s Probable XI:
Courtois – Vazquez, Rüdiger, Fran Garcia, Asencio – Tchouaméni, Valverde, Ceballos – Brahim, Mbappé, Rodrygo.

Valladolid’s Probable XI:
Hein – Pérez, Torres, Sánchez, Lucas Rosa – Kike Pérez, Amallah, Martín, Anuar – André, I. Sánchez.

Real Madrid enters the match as heavy favorites. The Merengues are expected to dominate, much like their 3-0 victory over Valladolid earlier this season. However, Valladolid, playing with nothing to lose, could spring a surprise, making this an intriguing encounter.