Real Madrid vs RB Leipzig

Champions League

Fueled by a sense of injustice lingering from the weekend, Real Madrid are determined to finish the job against RB Leipzig in the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie at the Bernabeu on Wednesday.



Carlo Ancelotti's squad carries a slim 1-0 lead from the first leg three weeks ago, leaving little room for error against their Bundesliga counterparts. Despite missing Jude Bellingham due to an ankle injury, Brahim Diaz stole the show in the first leg with a remarkable solo goal. However, Real Madrid's defense was tested by RB Leipzig's attacking prowess, notably from Benjamin Sesko, but resilient defending and outstanding goalkeeping secured their narrow advantage.

In the weeks since, Real Madrid's form has been inconsistent, with only one win in their last three La Liga matches, including a controversial draw with Valencia. Still, they remain at the top of the La Liga standings, albeit with pressure mounting. RB Leipzig, on the other hand, are eager to overturn the deficit, knowing they squandered opportunities in the first leg. Despite a recent Bundesliga win, their form has been shaky, and they face an uphill battle at the Bernabeu, especially without suspended defender Mohamed Simakan. Both teams have their key players available, with Bellingham and Camavinga cleared to play for Real Madrid, while Leipzig will rely on Openda and Sesko in attack.

Real Madrid Possible Starting Lineup:

Lunin; Carvajal, Tchouameni, Rudiger, Mendy; Valverde, Camavinga, Kroos; Bellingham; Rodrygo, Vinicius Jr

RB Leipzig Possible Starting Lineup:

Gulacsi; Henrichs, Orban, Lukeba, Raum; Olmo, Haidara, Schlager, Simons; Openda, Sesko