Real Madrid will play against Leganes at home on Saturday after the international break. Los Blancos are currently three points behind Barcelona in La Liga and need a win to keep pace. Returning after the international break can be challenging, especially with Real Madrid also preparing for a Copa del Rey match against Real Sociedad on Tuesday.
Despite the break, news around Real Madrid has been busy, with rumors linking them to Liverpool`s Trent Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer and Brazil reportedly interested in hiring manager Carlo Ancelotti. Such rumors are common for a club of Real Madrid`s size, but maintaining focus on the upcoming match is crucial.
Leganes is currently in the relegation zone, making this a match Real Madrid is expected to win comfortably. However, if Real Madrid takes time to score, Leganes might gain confidence and potentially cause an upset.
Here`s a preview of the match:
Match Details
- Date: Saturday, March 29
- Time: 4 p.m. ET
- Location: Estadio Santiago Bernabeau, Madrid, Spain
- Live stream: ESPN+
- Odds: Real Madrid -800; Draw +750; Leganes +1800
Previous Meeting
Real Madrid and Leganes have played twice recently, both at Estadio Municipal de Butarque. Real Madrid won both times, with the last match in the Copa del Rey quarterfinal in February being particularly eventful. Leganes fell behind 2-0 with goals from Luka Modric and Endrick, but Juan Cruz scored twice to level the score by the 59th minute. Gonzalo Garcia scored a late goal in stoppage time to secure the win for Real Madrid. Playing at Santiago Bernabeu might change the dynamics, but Leganes can draw confidence from their recent performance against Real Madrid.
Real Madrid`s Perspective
Ancelotti has emphasized the importance of the La Liga race. While Real Madrid is expected to compete for the title until the end, the upcoming Clasico on May 11 could be decisive.
“La Liga is not over. Barcelona is ahead, but we have the Clasico and many games remaining. We must do our best, starting tomorrow,” Ancelotti stated. “There are 13 league games left, potentially 17 if we advance in other competitions. I hope that`s the case, showing we are competing in every competition until the very end.”
Injury concerns include Thibaut Courtois, Dani Ceballos, and Ferland Mendy being unavailable for this match. Vinicius Junior and other players who played extensively during the international break might also get some rest. Ancelotti also addressed rumors about coaching Brazil, denying any contact from the Brazilian FA.
“I don`t recall discussing this with Ronaldo. My contract is clear, and I have nothing more to add,” Ancelotti said. “I have great respect for the Brazil national team, their players, and fans, but I am contracted to Real Madrid.”
Predicted Lineups
Real Madrid: Andriy Lunin, Francisco Garcia, Antonio Rugiger, Raul Asencio, Lucas Vazquez, Jude Bellingham, Aurelien Tchouameni, Fede Valverde, Rodrygo, Kylian Mbappe, Vini Jr.
Leganes: Marko Dmitrovic, Juan Cruz, Javier Hernandez, Matija Nastasic, Sergio Gonzalez, Valentin Rosier, Seydouba Cisse, Renato Tapia, Darko Brasanac, Diego Garcia, Daniel Raba
Player to Watch
Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid: Mbappe is a key player to watch, especially after a strong start with Real Madrid. He has scored 20 La Liga goals and 31 goals in total this season. While his scoring pace might be slightly lower than last season with Paris Saint-Germain, Mbappe has achieved 30 or more goals in all competitions for seven consecutive seasons, a remarkable achievement.
Mbappe has become central to Real Madrid`s attack, creating opportunities for other players. His ability to perform in tight spaces, against Leganes` expected five-man defense, will be crucial for Real Madrid`s success.
Key Storyline
Jude Bellingham`s Role: Last season, without a clear striker, Bellingham played a more attacking role, scoring 19 goals in La Liga. With Mbappe in the team, his role has shifted. However, Real Madrid might need Bellingham to be more aggressive in the box in this match, especially against a defensively focused Leganes. His deep-lying midfield runs could be key to breaking down a low defensive block.
Bellingham`s versatility allows him to play effectively in various positions. If he can balance his defensive duties with timely runs into the box, Real Madrid will be a very difficult team to defeat.
Match Prediction
Real Madrid is expected to start strong with an early goal from Mbappe within the first 15 minutes. As Leganes needs to open up their play, Real Madrid will likely extend their lead. In a tight La Liga race, goal difference could be important, pushing Real Madrid to aim for a significant win. Prediction: Real Madrid 4, Leganes 0
