Real Madrid vs Levante
La Liga, 2015/16
Date: Saturday, 17th October
Time: 3:00 pm BST
Venue: Santiago Bernabeu
Live Stream: Click here
Rafa Benitez will be hoping to redeem himself in front of the home fans on Saturday when Real Madrid welcome Levante to Santiago Bernabeu.
The Spaniard’s playing style has been question after two back to back draws against Malaga and Atletico Madrid. Even the players questioned his defensive substitutions after the Madrid derby.
The likes of Karim Benzema and club captain Sergio Ramos seemed frustrated with Benitez’s decision to sit back after scoring a goal against Atletico. Furthermore, Benzema expressed his disappointment about being subbed off for a midfielder quite often this season.
However, Benitez says he has a very united dressing room and his players are itching to set things right against Levante.
The Los Blancos are still undefeated in all competitions under Rafa Benitez and will be looking to close the gap at the top of the table.
Meanwhile, Levante have started the season in abysmal form and are in the relegation zone with just one win so far. Lucas Alcaraz’s side pulled off a stunning 1-0 win against Villarreal in their last game and will be hoping for another upset this weekend.
Real Madrid vs Levante Team News
James Rodriguez, Karim Benzema, Dani Carvajal and Luka Modric are set to miss the game after picking up injuries during the international break.
The good news for Real Madrid is the return of Brazilian right back Danilo. The former Porto defender was back in training four days ago and is expected to start against Levante.
Casemiro likely to be asked to slot into midfield alongside Toni Kroos in the absence of Modric and Benzema will be replaced by Jese.
As for Levante, Angel Trujillo is still out, with Simao set to continue in his place. The likes of Lerma, Camarasa and Jose Mari are set to start in the midfield.
However, central midfielder Verza is a doubt for the game. Nabil Ghilas and Deyverson are expected to lead the line alongside the wide forward Morales.
Real Madrid vs Levante Starting Lineups
Real Madrid starting lineup (4-3-3 formation): Navas; Danilo, Varane, Ramos, Marcelo; Kroos, Casemiro, Isco; Bale, Jese, Ronaldo
Levante starting lineup (5-3-2 formation): Ruben; Lopez, Simao, Feddal, Juanfran, Tono; Lerma, Mari, Morales; Deyverson, Ghilas
Key Stats
Real Madrid have won their last 7 home matches against Levante in all competitions.
Real Madrid are undefeated in their last 20 home matches in La Liga.
Real Madrid have scored 20 goals in the last 6 meetings with Levante.
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