Real Madrid host 15th placed Las Palmas as Zinedine Zidane looks to keep their momentum going following a 2-0 win over AS Roma in the second leg of the round of 16 Champions League tie. The Madrid outfit has been poor away from home this season, which has potentially ruled them out of the title race. However, the Galacticos will look for a convincing win over Las Palmas in order to stay on Atletico’s heels who are currently sitting on the second spot.
Despite missing Karim Benzema in the starting line-up, Real Madrid managed to score two past AS Roma on Tuesday, as they qualified for the quarter-finals of the Champions League with a 4-0 aggregate score. The Madrid side have looked unconvincing in the Frenchman’s absence, especially with Cristiano Ronaldo playing out of his comfort zone to make up for the former’s absence. However, even Benzema’s absence couldn’t stop the Portuguese superstar and his teammates from scoring 7 goals against Celta Vigo last week.
Las Palmas on the other hand are aware that a defeat against Real Madrid could leave them hovering dangerously close to the relegation zone. They have been undefeated in their last three fixtures and are coming into the game at the back of a confidence boosting 1-0 win over 4th placed Villarreal.
Team News
Las Palmas
Both Dani Castellano and Javi Castellano are expected to miss the fixture due to injuries. Former Real Madrid Castilla player Willian Jose is expected to lead the team’s attack.
Probable Lineup: Varas (GK); Simon, Artiles, Bigas, Garrido; Mesa, Tana, Montoro, Viera, El Zhar; Willian
Real Madrid
Karim Benzema remains sidelined due to a hamstring injury while Gareth Bale and Marcelo are expected to be named in the starting lineup. Carvajal is expected to replace Danilo who has not been named in the squad along with Toni Kroos and James Rodriguez.
Probable Starting Eleven: Navas (GK); Carvajal, Ramos, Varane, Marcelo; Isco, Modric, Casemiro, Bale, Lucas, Ronaldo
Key Facts
- Cristiano Ronaldo is leading Luis Suarez on the top of the goal scoring charts in Spain by a single goal.
- Real Madrid have scored 10 goals in their last two La Liga fixtures while Las Palmas have scored 5.
- Both the sides have won 3 of their last 5 domestic fixtures.
- Las Palmas have conceded 4 goals in their last 5 La Liga outings while Real Madrid have conceded 6.
Prediction
Las Palmas 1-2 Real Madrid
Real Madrid are expected to come out on top at the Estadio Gran Canaria but will be made to work for the three points. A shaky defence could add to Zidane’s woes against Las Palmas.
Betting Odds (bet 365)
Real Madrid – 4/11
Draw – 17/4
Las Palmas – 13/2
