When Real Madrid and Barcelona square off in tomorrow’s Spanish Super Cup final, Real Madrid will be looking for payback. In the same competition’s final, the Catalans defeated them in a rather humiliating manner, winning 1-3.
Even though they defeated Barcelona 0–4 a few months later, they have an opportunity to win their first trophy of the year tomorrow and improve upon their performance from the previous campaign.
In the semifinal matchup against Atletico Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti’s team barely avoided injury to Eduardo Camavinga, Daniel Carvajal, and Federico Valverde as los blancos prevailed 5-3 in an eight-goal thriller.
This is how Madrid Universal anticipates the 14-time Champions League winners to line up for El Clasico tomorrow, with the majority of the team healthy and prepared for action.
Defense: Mendy keeps going after the goal
Kepa’s performance in the semifinal was met with disapproval from Real Madrid supporters since he made an error that resulted in Atletico’s third goal of the game. Nonetheless, numerous reports have consistently verified that the Spaniard will continue to start in goal.
The back line won’t alter either, especially following a strong performance in which three of the four shots went on goal.
Let’s start with Daniel Carvajal, the player of the match who finished with one goal and two assists. Despite some concerns about his fitness, the Spaniard should continue to play right back because he exercised by himself following the match.
With David Alaba and Eder Militao out due to ACL tears, Antonio Rudiger and Nacho will start as the center back duo. Although the former is not anticipated to return this season, if his recuperation proceeds as planned, he might make a cameo in the last few games.
One of Madrid’s finest left-backs, Eduardo Camavinga, is a strong candidate to start there, especially against Lamine Yamal. But after a goal in the semifinals, Ancelotti will now want to give Mendy a more consistent role.
There will probably just be one change to the starting lineup from the semifinals, and that will be Toni Kroos in place of Luka Modric in the middle of the park.
The Croatian had a great showing against Atleti, but Kroos’ composure and vision will be ideal for Ancelotti against a quality Barcelona midfield that will seek to control the game.
Despite limping off during extra time, Federico Valverde has been cleared medically to play. He will begin the game at the base of the midfield, next to Aurelien Tchouameni.
Jude Bellingham’s status has been up for debate for some time, but it’s reasonable to say that, at this stage, he has essentially been playing for Madrid as a false nine. He intends to carry on in that capacity tomorrow in an attempt to mimic his antics from the league game versus Barça.
To help Bellingham, Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo are anticipated to form the top duo, with the former on the left flank and the latter on the right.
Since he has been playing so well lately, Brahim Diaz will be among Ancelotti’s first players off the bench. He might come on if they are trailing, or he could take Vini’s or Rodrygo’s position.
Luka Modric was a valuable tool for Ancelotti in the 1-2 victory over Barcelona as a substitute, and he will be hoping the seasoned midfielder can replicate that kind of play tomorrow.
Regardless of the status of the game, Eduardo Camavinga and Joselu are two players that nearly always receive playing time. The former might enter the game as a left-back to up the tempo or to provide more control in midfield.
Not to forget Arda Guler, who was so close to signing for Barcelona. For him, a few minutes here and there would make a big difference.
