Real Madrid, aiming for their fifth consecutive victory across all competitions, host struggling Granada at the Bernabeu in La Liga’s Saturday evening fixture.
While Los Blancos lead the La Liga table, Granada finds themselves in 19th place, having had a challenging start to the 2023-24 season with just nine points from 14 games.
Match Preview
Real Madrid recently secured their place atop their Champions League group with a 4-2 win against Napoli, ensuring progression to the knockout stages.
In La Liga, they’ve clinched victories against Valencia (5-1) and Cadiz (3-0), reclaiming the top spot from Girona, who drew their last match against Athletic Bilbao.
Despite facing injuries, Real Madrid boasts a strong defensive record, conceding just nine goals, and holds the league’s second-highest goal tally with 31.
With upcoming fixtures against Granada, Real Betis, Villarreal, and Alaves, Carlo Ancelotti may rotate the squad, given their position in Europe.
Granada, under new manager Alexander Medina following Paco Lopez’s dismissal, has had a challenging season.
Medina faces a tough start, replacing Lopez after their 3-1 loss to Alaves, with Granada having won only one league game and suffering four defeats in their last five.
Granada’s defensive woes are evident, and their recent away record, losing three consecutive games, adds to the challenge against Real Madrid.
Team News
Real Madrid’s injury list includes Vinicius Junior, Eduardo Camavinga, Arda Guler, Luka Modric, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Aurelien Tchouameni, Eder Militao, and Thibaut Courtois.
Rodrygo, substituted against Napoli due to cramps, should be available.
Granada misses Jesus Vallejo and Miguel Angel Rubio due to injury. Bryan Zaragoza, Myrto Uzuni, and Lucas Boye, contributing to Granada’s attack, are expected to feature, with Ricard Sanchez potentially joining the defense.
Possible Lineups
Real Madrid:(4-3-1-2)
Lunin;
Vazquez, Nacho, Alaba, Mendy;
Valverde, Kroos, Ceballos;
Bellingham;
Rodrygo, Joselu
Granada:(4-3-3)
Ferreira;
R Sanchez, Torrente, Miquel, Neva;
Villar, Gumbau, Melendo;
Uzuni, Boye, Zaragoza
Prediction
Real Madrid, despite injury concerns, holds a strong record against Granada in recent years. Given their form and home advantage, expect a commanding performance from Los Blancos.
Granada’s defensive frailties might pave the way for a comfortable win for Real Madrid.
- Our Prediction: Real Madrid 3-0 Granada
Anticipate a convincing victory for Real Madrid, continuing their impressive run against a struggling Granada side.