Real Madrid Predicted Lineup vs RB Salzburg – Champions League

Real Madrid’s defense of their Champions League crown has been underwhelming this season. However, a crucial fixture against RB Salzburg at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday night offers Los Blancos an opportunity to secure their spot in the knockout stage.

While Real Madrid is heavily favored against struggling Salzburg, Carlo Ancelotti’s side has faced unexpected setbacks in the competition, including losses to Lille, AC Milan, and Liverpool. The Italian manager, who has been the subject of exit rumors, must contend with defensive issues but can count on his attacking players to maintain their recent form.

Real Madrid’s Key Challenges and Opportunities

Ancelotti faces a depleted defensive lineup due to injuries and suspensions. Dani Carvajal is sidelined for the season, Lucas Vazquez is suspended, and key midfielders Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga are unavailable. Despite these challenges, Madrid’s attacking players, including Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, and Kylian Mbappe, are expected to lead the charge.

Real Madrid Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)

Goalkeeper:

• Thibaut Courtois: With defensive vulnerabilities, Courtois may have a busy night against Salzburg’s offense under new management.

Defenders:

• RB: Federico Valverde: Stepping in at right-back due to injuries and suspensions, Valverde brings versatility to the position.
• CB: Raul Asencio: The young defender has impressed in his first-team appearances this season and is expected to start.
• CB: Antonio Rudiger: Partnering Asencio, Rudiger will be a vital presence in Madrid’s backline.
• LB: Ferland Mendy: Rotating with Fran Garcia, Mendy is likely to return to the starting XI midweek.

Midfielders:

• DM: Luka Modric: Fresh from suspension, Modric will anchor the midfield in the absence of Tchouameni and Camavinga.
• DM: Dani Ceballos: With Valverde shifting to defense, Ceballos is set to make his third consecutive start.

Forwards:

• RW: Rodrygo: In fine form, Rodrygo will aim to exploit Salzburg’s defensive weaknesses.
• AM: Jude Bellingham: Bellingham will look to make his mark after having a goal disallowed in the weekend’s La Liga clash.
• LW: Vinicius Junior: Returning from suspension, the Brazilian star has been prolific in the Champions League with five goals in five games.
• ST: Kylian Mbappe: Mbappe has hit his stride with eight goals in his last ten appearances and will spearhead Madrid’s attack.

Can Madrid Overcome Defensive Woes?

Real Madrid’s defensive struggles have added an element of unpredictability to their Champions League campaign. However, with their attacking stars in excellent form, Los Blancos are favorites to claim victory against Salzburg and edge closer to the knockout phase.