Actual Madrid are set to go to Atletico Madrid on the Civitas Metropolitano on Wednesday in a decisive battle for a spot within the 2024-25 UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. Nevertheless, the crew may face a significant setback with two key gamers doubtful for the essential encounter.
The Champions League spherical of 16 will conclude this week, narrowing the competitors down to only eight groups. One of many standout fixtures is the extremely anticipated Madrid derby, the place Actual Madrid maintain a slender 2-1 benefit from the primary leg.
With the slim lead, coach Carlo Ancelotti is anticipated to discipline his strongest lineup to reduce the chance of an Atletico Madrid comeback. Nevertheless, his plans could possibly be jeopardized after two essential gamers missed Sunday’s 2-1 win over Rayo Vallecano.
Courtois and Rudiger doubtful
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and defender Antonio Rudiger are the 2 Actual Madrid gamers whose availability stays unsure for Wednesday’s showdown. Each had been absent towards Rayo Vallecano, elevating considerations amongst followers.
Courtois is coping with a slight pressure in his proper patellar tendon. His absence was reportedly a part of a “scheduled relaxation” to permit him to recuperate totally and keep away from additional issues, rising his probabilities to be accessible towards Atletico.
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Rudiger’s scenario is extra regarding. The defender missed Saturday’s coaching session as a consequence of flu-like signs and can also be experiencing discomfort in one in all his knees, casting severe doubt over his participation within the upcoming derby.
When requested in regards to the gamers’ situations in his post-match press convention, Ancelotti remained cautious: “Hopefully, Rudiger can recuperate from the flu, and Courtois as properly… Courtois has a small downside that I consider he’ll recuperate from rapidly for Wednesday’s match,” mentioned the Italian coach, sounding extra optimistic in regards to the goalkeeper’s availability than Rudiger’s.
