Battle of the Underdogs: Leganes Takes on a Wounded Real Madrid in a Must-Win Clash

Real Madrid has a vital away game against Leganes this Sunday, making it a crucial match for the team.

After a strong performance before the international break, where they defeated Osasuna 4-0 with Vinicius Jr. scoring three goals, Los Blancos are looking to maintain their positive momentum. This match has gained attention as it is scheduled for a unique timeslot and will be broadcasted on network television in the U.S.

Despite ongoing injury challenges, coach Carlo Ancelotti benefited from the international break, as the team did not incur any new injuries. With a six-point gap behind La Liga leaders Barcelona, Madrid needs to avoid any further points dropped.

On the other hand, Leganes is positioned 14th in the league but has shown improvement by winning three of their last four matches, including two in the league, boosting their survival hopes.

Leganes vs. Real Madrid Lineups, Predicted Starting XI, Team News

Leganes suffered injuries just before the international break, losing two starters: Peruvian midfielder Renato Tapia and left-back Enric Franquesa.

Tapia’s injury seems manageable, but Franquesa will miss the rest of the season due to an ACL tear, with Javi Hernandez likely to step in.

Additionally, winger Dani Raba is out with a hamstring injury, having recently provided two assists in his prior matches.

Leganes Predicted XI (4-2-3-1, right to left): Dmitrovic (GK) — Altimira, S. Gonzalez, Nastasic, J. Hernandez — Chicco, Cisse — Cruz, Brasanac, El Haddadi — De la Fuente.

Injured: Tapia (adductor), Franquesa (ACL), Raba (hamstring).
Suspended: None.

Real Madrid also faces a substantial injury list but may regain some players for this game. Key among them is Aurelien Tchouameni, who has returned to training after an ankle injury.

This could lead to Federico Valverde filling in at right-back, a position lacking depth due to injuries to Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vazquez.

Defender Eder Militao is also out for the season with an ACL injury, while David Alaba is expected back in January.

Rodrygo is ahead of schedule in his recovery, which may allow him to be available for this match, although a starting spot seems unlikely. Coach Ancelotti had previously opted for Fran Garcia at left-back due to Ferland Mendy’s poor form, and Garcia’s last performance may earn him another chance.

Real Madrid Predicted XI (4-3-3, right to left): Lunin (GK) — Valverde, R. Asencio, Rudiger, F. Garcia — Tchouameni, Bellingham, Camavinga — B. Diaz, Mbappe, Vinicius.

Injured: Carvajal (knee), Militao (ACL), Rodrygo (muscle), Vazquez (muscle), Alaba (ACL).
Suspended: None.

Leganes vs. Real Madrid Live Stream, TV Channel

Learn how to watch this La Liga match from various global regions, particularly in the U.S., where it will air on ABC.