JAKARTA - Real Madrid rotated against the basic occupants of the Almeria standings in the La Liga match Spain. Even though they did not field the best squad, Madrid were still seeded to win in the match which was held at home at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Sunday, January 21, 2024, WIB night.
Madrid played a marathon match. They competed in the Spanish Super Cup which wore the final four format. The match which was followed by four La Liga teams was held in the Middle East, namely in Saudi Arabia. Madrid emerged as champions after beating Barceona 4-2 in the final match.
After winning the trophy, Madrid then competed in the Copa del Rey. As a result, they gave up 4-2 against Atletico Madrid in Madrid Derby. This match is a repeat of the Spanish Super Cup semifinals.
At that time, Los Merengues won 5-3. But they failed to repeat it in the Copa del Rey when they visited Atletico headquarters.
"We fought hard against a strong team. We remain satisfied with the team's performance. But the result made us unhappy," said coach Carlo Ancelotti.
The fatigue experienced by players because there was no time to rest after returning from Saudi Arabia made Ancelotti rotate the players. Moreover, Madrid Derby's two games had to be completed through extra time.
However, Madrid did not want to lose points at home to Almeria. In addition, Madrid needed victory in order to reclaim the top position currently controlled by Girona.
Madrid, who are in second place, are competing with Girona. Currently, Madrid, which has 48 points, is only one point adrift of Girona.
"It is important for us when playing at home. Fans fully support us so that we can perform our best. The team is in good condition despite a match that must be completed through extra time. Players have also undergone recovery," said Ancelotti,
"We focus on facing a team that is said to have only six points. But they can beat Girona and Barcelona have to play a tight game. Opponents show they are still breathing and ready to fight," said the former Chelsea and Everton manager.
In the match against Almoria, Madrid came down with different players. A number of pillars such as Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo and Jude Bellingham are likely to start the match in this domestic competition by sitting on the bench. Likewise, defenders Ferland Mendy, Nacho or Antonio Rudiger did not enter the starting line up
On the other hand, Ancelotti gave Joselu and Brahim Diaz the opportunity in the front sector. They replace Vinicus and Rodrygo. The young Turkish star Arda Guler is ready to play.
In the middle, Toni Kroos, who was just fielded in the second half against Atletico, is likely to start. Kroos will return in a duet with another veteran, Luka Modric.
While on the back, veteran defender Lucas Vazquez returned to play after resting for several weeks due to injury. As a result of his injury, he missed four Madrid games.
Then who is standing under the bar? Goalkeeper Andriy Lunin failed to keep the clean sheet and instead conceded four times in the match against Atletico.
Meanwhile, Kepa goalkeeper Arrizabalaga has actually shown consistency. Both have the opportunity to be the first choice.
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