Real Madrid is set to host Villarreal at the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu this Saturday, just ahead of the season`s second international break. Xabi Alonso`s squad will be looking to rebound from a disappointing 5-2 defeat in the Madrid Derby against Atlético Madrid last week, a loss that ended their perfect six-game winning streak in LaLiga. The upcoming match against Villarreal presents an ideal opportunity for Los Blancos to demonstrate a strong reaction before their home supporters. Midweek saw Real Madrid undertake a significant 4000-mile journey for their Champions League fixture against Kairat, which they comfortably won 5-0. Here`s a comprehensive overview of Saturday`s crucial encounter.
Match Details & Broadcast Information
Here’s how you can follow the action:
- Date: Saturday, October 4th
- Kick-off Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Venue: Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid
- Live Streaming: ESPN+
- Betting Odds: Real Madrid -233; Draw +408; Villarreal +500
Xabi Alonso`s Pre-Match Thoughts
Addressing the media before the Villarreal game, the Spanish coach shared his expectations for the team`s response following the disheartening loss to Atlético Madrid.
`My primary focus is on how we respond,` Alonso stated. `I want us to perform with intensity, quality, and as a cohesive unit. I`m not making requests; rather, we must be the ones to put everything into it. Being proactive in our play is crucial, as we understand that`s what truly engages our fans. We aim not only to secure a win but to do so by playing in the manner we envision. We share a deep connection, built through countless hours spent preparing for games, celebrating triumphs, and enduring the sting of defeats. This intimacy fosters strong unity within the squad. I`ve always felt a sense of trust and closeness with my players, understanding my role while ensuring mutual respect and collaborative effort. These elements are absolutely fundamental to me.`
Anticipated Starting Lineups
Real Madrid Predicted XI:
Thibaut Courtois; Raul Asencio, Eder Militao, Dean Huijsen, Alvaro Carreras; Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni; Arda Guler, Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior; Kylian Mbappe.
Villarreal Predicted XI:
Luiz Junior; Santiago Mourino, Rafa Marin, Renato Veiga, Sergi Cardona; Pape Gueye, Thomas Partey, Alberto Moleiro; Tani Oluwaseyi, Georges Mikautadze, Manor Solomon.
