Real Madrid are back in UEFA Champions League action as they welcome Juventus to the Santiago Bernabeu.
The European giants started their group stage campaign on a high, winning both matches so far.
They began with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Marseille and followed it up with a dominant 5-0 win against Kairat Almaty, demonstrating their attacking firepower and defensive solidity.
The Spanish side also carried momentum from their domestic league as they edged past local rivals Getafe 1-0 last weekend. Kylian Mbappe’s late strike proved decisive in a closely contested game at El Coliseum.
This win helped Real Madrid maintain their position at the top of La Liga, holding a two-point lead over bitter rivals Barcelona.
The timing is ideal, with the first Clasico of the season just around the corner, setting up a crucial showdown in the title race.
Juventus, on the other hand, are struggling to find form. The Serie A side have gone six games without a win, recording five draws and a defeat.
Real Madrid will hope to take advantage of their visitors’ poor run and continue their unbeaten start in the Champions League.
In goal, Thibaut Courtois remains Real Madrid’s undisputed number one. His presence between the sticks is unquestionable, and there is little reason for manager Xabi Alonso to make any changes in this area ahead of Juventus.
The team received some encouraging updates in defence before the match. Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold could be available for selection, although Alonso is unlikely to reinstate them directly into the starting XI.
Which is why Federico Valverde is expected to continue his role at right-back, providing stability on that flank.
However, Alonso’s defensive line remains stretched due to injuries. Antonio Rudiger is sidelined until November, and David Alaba has recently joined Dean Huijsen on the sidelines.
This leaves Eder Militao and Raul Asencio as the only centre-back options available.
On the left side, Alvaro C arreras has shown consistency this season, and Alonso will likely keep faith with him to maintain balance in the back four.
In midfield, there might be a minor tweak compared to the team that faced Getafe. Aurelien Tchouameni is guaranteed to start as the central pivot, anchoring the midfield.
However, Eduardo Camavinga might have to make way for Arda Guler.
The Turkish international could return to the starting XI, which would force Alonso to utilise Jude Bellingham in a deeper role, as Guler has been a better attacking threat this season.
The forward line is also expected to see a few adjustments. After being rested against Getafe, Vinicius Jr. is likely to come back into the starting XI on the left wing, replacing Rodrygo.
On the right, Franco Mastantuono, despite not producing impressive numbers, remains a constant attacking threat. Alonso will be hoping for him to make a decisive impact against Juventus.
Lastly, Kylian Mbappe’s inclusion is certain. The club’s top scorer has been on a scorching run this season, and he will hope to continue this form against the Serie A giants.
Real Madrid will aim to use this match not only to continue their unbeaten Champions League start but also to build confidence ahead of the first Clasico of the season.