Predicted Real Madrid Line-up To Face Numancia In The Copa Del Rey
Real Madrid will face off against Numancia in the second leg of their Copa Del Rey round of 16 tie at the Santiago Bernabeu, on Wednesday night.
The Galacticos come into the game with a healthy 3-0 lead from the first leg, thanks to goals from Gareth Bale, Isco and Borja Mayoral. However, having failed to register a win in the La Liga against Celta Vigo (2-2) over the weekend, manager Zinedine Zidane will be hoping that his side don’t slip up against the Spanish second division side.
Team News
The reigning La Liga champions are going to be without the services of captain Sergio Ramos who is out for 2-3 weeks with a muscle problem, while striker Karim Benzema is also unavailable.
Here’s how the Los Blancos might take the field against Numancia:
Manager: Zinedine Zidane
Formation: 4-3-3
Kiko Casilla (GK)
The designated keeper for the cup competitions, Madrid’s No.2 Kiko Casilla should start between the sticks on Wednesday.
Achraf Hakimi (RB)
The young right-back could get the nod at right-back for the cup game, ahead of Dani Carvajal who is back from suspension.
Jesus Vallejo (CB)
In the heart of the defence, Zidane could opt to go with academy graduate Jesus Vallejo in place of Raphael Varane.
Nacho (CB)
Alongside Vallejo, it should be fellow Cantera Nacho who should start against Numancia, in the absence of captain Sergio Ramos.
Theo Hernandez (LB)
The summer signing should be starting the game at left-back, with Marcelo likely to be given some rest.
Dani Ceballos (CM)
The former Real Betis man hasn’t had a lot of game time since his summer move. Zidane could choose to start him once again in the cup match.
Marcos Llorente (CM)
Another young and promising midfielder who hasn’t been heavily involved, Marcos Llorente is likely to step into the holding midfield role.
Mateo Kovacic (CM)
Completing the midfield trio for the Spanish champions on Wednesday night should be Croatian international Mateo Kovacic.
Lucas Vazquez (RW)
On the right-hand side of the attacking trident, Spanish winger Lucas Vazquez should get a start, with Gareth Bale likely to be given time off.
Borja Mayoral (ST)
The 20-year old striker has been in good form in the cup games and has three goals in the competition. With Benzema out of the game, Mayoral should start up front.
Marco Asensio (LW)
The left flank is likely to be occupied by 21-year-old Spanish international Marco Asensio. Has 7 goals and 3 assists in all competitions and will be looking to add to his tally.