As Real Madrid gears up for the Champions League quarter-final second leg showdown against Chelsea, they’re poised to bring out the big guns, with only Ferland Mendy missing in action due to a stubborn calf issue.
Carlo Ancelotti, Los Blancos’ seasoned head coach, didn’t hesitate to shuffle the deck for Saturday’s La Liga match against Cadiz, which saw Real Madrid clinch a confident 2-0 victory. But now, all eyes are on the upcoming clash with Chelsea, as the team’s titans prepare to take the field.
There were whispers of worry surrounding Vinicius Junior and Toni Kroos after they sat out the weekend game, but Ancelotti quickly dispelled any doubts, assuring they’ll be raring to go on Tuesday despite “small issues.” The dynamic duo is indeed back in the squad, much to the relief of Real Madrid fans.
Ancelotti sang their praises after the Cadiz game, saying, “They will play on Tuesday. They couldn’t play today because they both had small issues. They trained separately today but tomorrow they’ll train as normal and be fine for Tuesday.”
Despite his fitness struggles this season, Karim Benzema powered through the full 90 minutes against Cadiz, leaving spectators awestruck.
Ancelotti couldn’t hide his admiration, stating, “He looks in great shape to me, very fresh. He trained brilliantly yesterday. I told him I’d play him but bring him off when he got tired, but he was fine until the end.”
Real Madrid Titans Ready for Champions League Battle
With the first leg against Chelsea resulting in a 2-0 triumph for Real Madrid, Ancelotti is expected to bring back his star players for the decisive match. Dani Carvajal, David Alaba, Eduardo Camavinga, Kroos, Luka Modric, and Vinicius are all set to light up the field.
The stage is set for an epic battle, as Ancelotti mulls over his attacking options. Will Rodrygo hold on to his spot, or will Federico Valverde step in? One thing’s for sure, with Real Madrid in a commanding position for a spot in the final four, Chelsea will need to pull out all the stops if they hope to emerge victorious.
