Real Madrid vs Real Valladolid

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Match Details

• Date: August 25, 2024
• Time: 4:00 PM UK
• Venue: Estadio Santiago Bernabéu

Introduction

Real Madrid is set to welcome Real Valladolid to the iconic Santiago Bernabéu for their second match of the 2024-25 La Liga season. As the defending champions aim to secure their first win of the new campaign, newly-promoted Valladolid seeks to build on their opening-day victory. This encounter promises to be a thrilling clash between a footballing giant and an ambitious underdog.

Real Madrid's Season So Far

Los Blancos kicked off their season with a mixed bag of results. While they lifted the UEFA Super Cup with a convincing 2-0 victory over Atalanta BC, their La Liga opener ended in a disappointing 1-1 draw against Mallorca. Rodrygo's early strike was canceled out by Vedat Muriqi's equalizer, leaving Real Madrid with a solitary point from their first league match.

Despite the setback, Real Madrid remains one of the favorites to clinch the La Liga title this season. Carlo Ancelotti’s squad, bolstered by the summer signings of Kylian Mbappé and Endrick, is still adjusting to the new season's demands. However, the injury to Jude Bellingham, who is sidelined until the end of September, has dealt a significant blow to their midfield.

Real Valladolid's Return to La Liga

Real Valladolid, back in La Liga after finishing second in the Segunda Division last season, started their top-flight campaign on a high note. Paulo Pezzolano’s men secured a 1-0 victory over Espanyol, with Raúl Moro scoring the decisive goal. This win has undoubtedly boosted their confidence as they face one of the most formidable teams in the league.

Valladolid has been active in the transfer market, making ten new signings, including the acquisition of Juanmi Latasa from Real Madrid and Mario Martín on loan. These additions, coupled with the retention of key players from last season, have made them a team to watch this season.

Team News and Predicted Lineups

Real Madrid: Ancelotti will have to navigate a few absences as they gear up for this match. Jude Bellingham, David Alaba, and Eduardo Camavinga are all sidelined due to injuries. Ferland Mendy is suspended after receiving a red card against Mallorca, which means Fran García is likely to start at left-back. Luka Modrić could step into the midfield to replace Bellingham, while the attacking trio of Rodrygo, Mbappé, and Vinícius Júnior is expected to lead the line.

Predicted XI: Courtois; Carvajal, Militão, Rüdiger, F. García; Valverde, Tchouaméni, Modrić; Rodrygo, Mbappé, Vinícius.

Real Valladolid: Valladolid's squad appears to be relatively healthy, with Anuar Tuhami being the only notable absentee due to a hernia issue. André Ferreira is available again following his suspension, and Kenedy could make his return from a fitness concern. Pezzolano is expected to field an unchanged lineup from their opening match, with Mamadou Sylla leading the attack in a 4-5-1 formation.

Predicted XI: Hein; Pérez, Sánchez, Boyomo, Rosa; Ndiaye, Pérez, Comert, Amallah, Moro; Sylla.

Head-to-Head and Historical Context

Real Madrid has dominated this fixture in recent years, winning 13 of the last 15 La Liga meetings between the two sides. Their most recent encounter in April 2023 ended in a resounding 6-0 victory for Los Blancos. Valladolid's last triumph at the Bernabéu dates back to May 2000, underscoring the magnitude of the challenge they face this weekend.

Tactical Analysis

Real Madrid will likely control possession and look to exploit the wide areas with the pace and skill of Vinícius and Rodrygo. Tchouaméni's role as a holding midfielder will be crucial in breaking up Valladolid's counter-attacks, while Modrić’s creativity will be key to unlocking a potentially stubborn defense.

Valladolid, on the other hand, may adopt a more cautious approach, relying on quick transitions and set-pieces to create scoring opportunities. Sylla’s physical presence up front, combined with the pace of Moro and Ndiaye on the flanks, could trouble Madrid’s defense if they are not careful.

Prediction

Given the historical dominance of Real Madrid in this fixture and their need to bounce back from their opening-day draw, it's difficult to see anything other than a home victory. Valladolid will undoubtedly put up a fight, but the quality of Madrid's squad, even with the injuries, should see them through.

Predicted Score: Real Madrid 3-0 Real Valladolid.

Conclusion

This match is a crucial early test for both teams. Real Madrid will be eager to get their first win of the season and avoid dropping further points at this early stage, while Real Valladolid will aim to continue their positive start and upset the odds at the Bernabéu. Fans can expect an engaging contest with plenty of action and, likely, a few moments of brilliance from the reigning champions.