Real Madrid needed a late goal to seal the three points at the Estadi Ciutat de Valencia against Levante last season, and prior to that win, hadn’t beaten them in their previous three matches, so tonight’s game will be no walkover for Carlo Ancelotti’s men.
Los Blancos are in good form on the road however, and are unbeaten in their last seven away day outings. The hosts have not won at home this season, dishing up three draws so far infront of their fans – a winless run that Real Madrid will be keen to extend tonight.
Joaquin Caparros’ men were beaten 7-0 on the opening day of the campaign by Barcelona but are unbeaten in their last six matches, and currently sit ninth in La Liga with 10 points from a possible 21. They are six points behind Real Madrid going into the match.
The main talking point for Madrid is the forward role – with Karim Benzema set to be dropped to the bench having failed to score in his past five La Liga games. Alvaro Morata should get the nod up front after impressing in his cameo against Atletico de Madrid last time out.
Ancelotti is boosted by the return of Raphael Varane, but is likely to stick with this trusted back four. The young French defender still needs some minutes under his belt to get back to match fitness but is a welcome boost for the squad. Xabi Alonso and Gareth Bale miss out due to injury.
Baba Diawara and David Navarro have overcome slight injury concerns for the home side and will be ready to take their place in the starting eleven.
Probable line ups:
Levante: Navas; Lopez, Vyntra, Navarro, Juanfran; Pinto, Diop; Xumetra, Garcia, Zhar; Diawara
Real Madrid: Lopez; Arbeloa, Pepe, Ramos, Coentrao; Isco, Khedira, Modric; Di Maria, Morata, Ronaldo
