Rudiger, Guler start in a 4-3-3 – How Real Madrid can line up against RB Salzburg | OneFootball

Real Madrid will be looking to secure qualification to the last 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup when they face RB Salzburg in a high-stakes Group H match.

Both sides currently sit on four points each, with Real Madrid slightly ahead thanks to a better goal difference.

This game carries big importance, especially since only two teams can make it out of the group. A draw would be enough for Real Madrid to go through, but not enough to guarantee first place.

If they drop points and Al-Hilal beat Pachuca, the Saudi Arabian side could leapfrog them and finish top of the group.

This is a big night for Real Madrid. While a draw would be enough to move on, they will want to take all three points to stay in control and avoid facing stronger teams early in the knockout stages.

Let’s now take a look at how Real Madrid might line up for this key clash against RB Salzburg.

Defence

Antonio Rudiger is likely to return to the starting XI. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Thibaut Courtois is likely to start between the sticks once again. The Belgian remains the clear first-choice goalkeeper, with Andriy Lunin set to stay on the bench.

There is one major change in defence. Raul Asencio was sent off in the last game against Pachuca, so Xabi Alonso needs to shuffle his backline. Antonio Rudiger is likely to return to the starting XI and partner Dean Huijsen at the centre of defence.

On the flanks, Trent Alexander-Arnold should keep his place at right-back. He has had a decent tournament so far and is expected to continue. Fran Garcia will fill the role at left-back and is growing into the competition with solid performances.

Rudiger’s return also impacts other areas of the pitch, most notably the midfield.

Midfield

Aurelien Tchouameni will play at his preferred position. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

With Rudiger back in the heart of defence, Aurelien Tchouameni can return to his natural position in midfield. He will take up the holding role in front of the back four.

On either side of him, Federico Valverde—who is expected to wear the captain’s armband again—and Jude Bellingham will complete the midfield trio.

This setup means some big names will have to settle for a spot on the bench. Dani Ceballos, Luka Modric and youngster Chema Andres will all be hoping for some minutes later in the game.

Attack

Arda Guler will keep his place. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

Up front, the starting forward line is likely to feature Vinicius Jr., Arda Guler, and Gonzalo Garcia since Kylian Mbappe is still unavailable. This formation does not favour Rodrygo, who will likely start on the bench.

However, there is a possible alternate plan. If, for some reason, Rudiger does not start, then Tchouameni may be pulled back into central defence.

That would push Valverde into the holding role, Guler into midfield, and open up the right wing position, giving Rodrygo a chance to start.

Still, this looks like a backup plan and not the preferred one. All signs suggest that Real Madrid will go with their most stable and balanced lineup to get the result they need.