At 8 PM (GMT), Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid will face Manchester City in the second-leg playoff for a place in the Champions League Round of 16 at the Santiago Bernabéu. Ahead of kick-off, the official Madrid line-up has been announced.
A thrilling football spectacle awaits fans at the Santiago Bernabéu in just a few moments. Having secured a 3-2 victory in the first leg at the Etihad Stadium last Tuesday, Real Madrid will aim to finish the job this Wednesday. For what promises to be a fiercely contested match, Pep Guardiola’s side is nearly at full strength, except for Manuel Akanji, who remains sidelined after sustaining an injury in the first leg. Meanwhile, Carlo Ancelotti has received a major boost with the return of Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba, both of whom missed the first encounter.
Real Madrid’s official line-up
Looking to replicate their strong performance from the first leg, the Madrid boss has set up his team in a 4-3-3 formation, with Thibaut Courtois in goal. In defence, the key change comes in the centre, where Rüdiger replaces Aurélien Tchouaméni. On the left side, Ferland Mendy is set to take on the daunting task of containing Savinho and Phil Foden. Partnering Rüdiger at the heart of the defence is Raúl Asensio, who continues to impress with his maturity in recent weeks.
Federico Valverde, initially a doubt for the clash, retains his spot at right-back, stepping in for Lucas Vázquez, who has yet to fully recover from his injury. Aurélien Tchouaméni will take up the number six role to shield the defence. Back in midfield, where he thrives, the Madrid No.14 will be tasked with breaking up opposition play and carrying out the dirty work—much like Casemiro in the past. To maintain balance in midfield, Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos will also be in the starting XI.
Up front, the usual attacking trio is present. Vinícius Júnior, who delivered an outstanding performance in the first leg, is expected to receive a hero’s welcome from Madrid fans after the hostility he faced from City supporters. Kylian Mbappé will lead the line, while Rodrygo Goes—who has consistently excelled against the Sky Blues—will once again be looking to prove his worth on the big stage.
Real Madrid’s official starting XI
Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois
Defenders: Ferland Mendy, Raúl Asensio, Antonio Rüdiger, Federico Valverde
Midfielders: Aurélien Tchouaméni, Dani Ceballos, Jude Bellingham
Forwards: Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo Goes, Kylian Mbappé
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