Official: Real Madrid starting XI to face UD Almeria | OneFootball

When the defending champions of a league take on a newly promoted side, one expects nothing short of demolition of the latter. The same can be said about Real Madrid’s La Liga curtain raiser.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side take on UD Almeria at the Estadio del Mediterraneo and will look to capitalise on Barcelona’s early slip-up. With the Blaugranas dropping points in the very first matchday, it is the perfect chance for Los Blancos to walk away with an early lead.

Ahead of the game against the Andalusian club, Ancelotti’s lineup for the night has been revealed by the club.

Unsurprisingly, Thibaut Courtois starts in goals after a solid display midweek. The Belgian international is guarded by a central defence combination of Nacho and Antonio Rudiger. For the latter, it is his first official start in the white colours.

Flanking the centre-backs are Lucas Vasquez to the right and Ferland Mendy to the left respectively. Needless to say, it is a vital clash for both fullbacks given that both players are not guaranteed starters.

In midfield, the manager has selected a combination of youth and experience. Toni Kroos starts on the night after a stellar display midweek. He will be supported by young Eduardo Camavinga and the debutant Aurelien Tchouameni in the middle of the park.

Captain Karim Benzema starts as the central striker on the night. Vinicius Jr takes the second spot in the forward line as he starts on the left wing. The lineup is completed by Federico Valverde on the right wing.

Official Real Madrid lineup:

Courtois VaZquez . Militao . Rudiger . MendyCamavinga . Tchouameni . KroosValverde . Benzema . Vinicius