Real Madrid continues its pursuit of the La Liga title on Wednesday when they visit Getafe. The match is crucial for Real Madrid as they aim to maintain pressure on Barcelona in the final weeks of the season. This period is potentially defining for Real Madrid, possibly marking the conclusion of a particular era.
The recent elimination from the UEFA Champions League by Arsenal was a significant blow, ending one trophy chase and raising questions about Los Blancos` ability to secure any silverware this season. This contrasts sharply with the high expectations at the campaign`s start, yet the team`s inconsistent results over the past eight months underscore these concerns.
Sunday`s 1-0 victory against Athletic Club, though not flawless, was vital. It reaffirmed Real Madrid`s status as a contender for both La Liga and the Copa del Rey. Following this result, Los Blancos are just three points behind league leaders Barcelona heading into Matchday 33. Staying in the title race for a few more days is paramount, especially with the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona looming on Saturday, where both teams will have their first major trophy opportunity of the season.
Match Details & Odds
- Date: Wednesday, April 23
- Time: 3:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Estadio Coliseum — Getafe, Spain
- TV: ESPN2 | Live stream: ESPN+
- Odds: Getafe +380; Draw +260; Real Madrid -145
Team Updates
Getafe
Currently sitting 12th, eight points clear of the relegation zone with six games remaining, Getafe appears set for a relatively low-stakes finish to the season. However, manager Jose Bordalas faces challenges with Allan Nyom, Diego Rico, and Christantus Uche unavailable, and Borja Mayoral potentially not fit for the full match. Acknowledging Real Madrid`s current crucial phase, Bordalas admitted the difficulty of the fixture.
“I always say it’s never a good time to face Real Madrid,” he stated in his pre-match conference. “They`re one of the best teams in the world and are still competing in two competitions. They constantly win titles and possess one of the best squads globally. It`s never an easy game; we understand the challenges. The difference in everything is immense.”
Real Madrid
Carlo Ancelotti`s side enters as favorites and can afford another imperfect performance as long as they secure three points. They will be without Kylian Mbappe due to a minor injury. While a match between the second-place title contenders and a mid-table team might seem routine, this game carries significant weight beyond the title chase.
It`s increasingly likely that Ancelotti will depart Real Madrid before next season, with speculation even suggesting a possible farewell after the Copa del Rey final this weekend. Regardless, Wednesday`s game is likely among Ancelotti`s final matches in charge. This end-of-season period could set the tone for his successor. The incoming manager faces a substantial task with a squad that, while talented, lacks balance. A potentially trophyless season could make the next boss`s job even more difficult.
Predicted Lineups
Getafe: David Soria, Djene Dakonam, Domingos Duarte, Omar Alderete, Juan Iglesias, Ramon Terrats, Luis Milla, Mauro Arambarri, Juan Bernat, Bertug Yıldırım, Juanmi
Real Madrid: Thibaut Courtois, Federico Valverde, Raul Asencio, Antonio Rudiger, Eduardo Camavinga, Luka Modric, Aurelien Tchouameni, Dani Ceballos, Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo, Vinicius Junior
Prediction
This match is Real Madrid`s to lose. Despite their season-long inconsistency, given the stakes, it seems highly improbable they won`t take all three points. However, typical of their recent form, the game might not be particularly thrilling, so anticipate a low scoreline. Prediction: Getafe 0, Real Madrid 1
Dominic Ashworth