Match Preview:
Real Madrid will be aiming for their 14th La Liga victory of the season when they face Las Palmas at the Santiago Bernabéu on Sunday. Los Blancos are currently second in the La Liga table, one point behind leaders Atletico Madrid, and they will be eager to maintain their title challenge. Las Palmas, sitting in 14th place with 22 points from 19 matches, will be hoping to secure an upset against the reigning champions.
Recent Form:
Real Madrid’s recent form has been mixed, with Carlo Ancelotti's side picking up a vital 2-1 win over Valencia in their last league outing. However, they were defeated 5-2 by Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final last weekend. Despite these setbacks, Madrid remain strong at home, with eight wins and just one loss from their nine league matches at the Bernabéu this season.
Las Palmas have struggled in recent months but have shown improvement since the appointment of Diego Martinez. The team has recorded eight wins, one draw, and four losses in their last 13 matches. However, they come into this match on the back of a disappointing 4-0 loss to Elche in the Copa del Rey and a 2-1 defeat to Getafe in La Liga.
Team News and Lineups:
Real Madrid will be without Vinicius Junior and Luka Modric due to suspension, while Fran Garcia’s fitness is uncertain after he was forced off with injury in midweek. Additionally, Eduardo Camavinga will be sidelined for at least three weeks due to injury. Thibaut Courtois will return to goal, and key players like Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham, and Rodrygo will likely be back in the starting XI. David Alaba could make his first appearance since his knee injury, though long-term absentees Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal remain unavailable.
Las Palmas will be without Daley Sinkgraven and Viti due to injury, and Marvin Park and Jose Campana are doubtful. Fabio Silva will lead the line, aiming to improve on his recent penalty miss against Getafe.
Predicted Lineups:
Real Madrid:
Courtois; Vazquez, Asencio, Rudiger, Mendy; Valverde, Tchouameni, Bellingham; Rodrygo, Mbappe, Brahim.
Las Palmas:
Cillessen; Herzog, Suarez, McKenna, Marmol; Essugo, K Rodriguez; Sandro, Munoz, Moleiro; F Silva.
Prediction:
While Las Palmas have shown they can score, Real Madrid’s depth and home advantage should see them secure a 3-1 victory at the Bernabéu. Despite their recent struggles, the quality of players like Bellingham and Rodrygo will be key in guiding Los Blancos to three important points.
Conclusion:
This match promises to be an exciting encounter, as Real Madrid will look to continue their pursuit of the La Liga title, while Las Palmas will aim to capitalize on any slip-ups from the champions. With key players returning to fitness, Real Madrid are favorites, but Las Palmas will be eager to give their fans something to cheer about.
