Real Madrid vs Deportivo Lineup: Ancelotti's Predicted Starting XI & Tactical Analysis
Real Madrid's clash against Deportivo Alaves presents Carlo Ancelotti with another opportunity to rotate his squad while maintaining a winning momentum. While the opponent might seem less daunting than some of La Liga's giants, a strong lineup is still crucial for securing three points and keeping the team's form sharp. This article delves into Ancelotti's likely starting eleven, examines potential tactical tweaks, and analyzes the key battles to watch out for.
Ancelotti's Predicted Starting XI
Predicting Ancelotti's lineup is always a fascinating exercise. His tactical flexibility and willingness to rotate players based on form and fitness make it a challenging but engaging task. Considering recent performances and potential fatigue, this is a likely starting XI for the Real Madrid vs Deportivo Alaves match:
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Goalkeeper: Courtois – The undisputed number one, barring injury.
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Defenders: Carvajal, Militao, Alaba, Mendy – Ancelotti is likely to stick with his preferred back four, given their strong performances.
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Midfielders: Modric, Camavinga, Valverde – This midfield trio offers a blend of experience (Modric), dynamism (Camavinga), and tireless energy (Valverde). Their ability to control the tempo and disrupt opposition attacks is crucial.
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Forwards: Vinicius Jr., Benzema, Rodrygo – This attacking trident is potent. Vinicius' pace, Benzema's clinical finishing, and Rodrygo's versatility offer a formidable attacking threat.
Tactical Considerations: Rotation and Formation
While the 4-3-3 formation is likely to be retained, Ancelotti might consider subtle tactical adjustments. He could introduce fresh legs in midfield, potentially giving Kroos or Tchouameni a rest, or even experimenting with a slightly more defensive approach if needed. The key will be maintaining balance and ensuring a cohesive unit on the pitch. The manager's ability to adjust in-game based on Deportivo Alaves' tactics will be critical.
Key Battles to Watch
The match will likely see some intriguing individual battles. The midfield battle between Real Madrid's central trio and Alaves' midfielders will be particularly crucial, dictating the flow of the game. The wingers' ability to exploit space against Alaves' full-backs will also play a vital role. Benzema's battle against Alaves' central defenders will be another key area to monitor, as his goalscoring prowess is essential to Real Madrid's success.
Conclusion: A Chance for Rotation and Refinement
The Real Madrid vs Deportivo Alaves match presents Ancelotti with a chance to rotate his squad, giving key players some rest while maintaining a strong performance. While Alaves might not be among La Liga’s top teams, a professional and focused approach is paramount. The manager’s tactical decisions, and the performance of his chosen lineup, will be key factors determining the final outcome. The match offers a valuable opportunity to further refine tactics and build towards more challenging fixtures in the future. This predicted lineup balances experience, youthful energy, and attacking prowess, suggesting Real Madrid should emerge victorious.
