Real Madrid vs Braga Prediction & Match Preview
After a goalless draw in the local derby against Rayo Vallecano (0-0), Real Madrid is determined to bring some joy to their fans as they face Braga in the upcoming Champions League clash on Wednesday evening.
Los Blancos have their sights set on swiftly securing their position in Group C, and we are confident that they will launch a full-fledged offensive against the Primeira Liga side.
The anticipated return of Rodrygo and Toni Kroos to the starting lineup is expected to boost their prospects, while the treatment room still houses the likes of Dani Ceballos, Thibaut Courtois, Eder Militao, Ferland Mendy, and Aurelien Tchouameni.
On the other hand, Braga recently dominated Portimonense with a resounding 6-1 victory in their last league match. Nevertheless, they face an imposing challenge at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu.
Real Madrid’s formidable strength on their home turf is not to be underestimated, and we anticipate that Carlo Ancelotti’s squad will showcase their true potential on the field. Victor Gomez is expected to be the only absence for the visiting team.
Team News:
Concerns arose when Jude Bellingham appeared to injure his shoulder in the first half of Sunday’s draw with Rayo Vallecano. While Ancelotti does not believe it’s a serious issue, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him rested during the midweek fixture.
Eder Militao (ACL), Thibaut Courtois (ACL), and Aurelien Tchouameni (foot) will not be available on Wednesday. Dani Ceballos’s muscular injury requires further evaluation, but Ancelotti is hopeful that Ferland Mendy will be fit for the game, as he was omitted from the weekend’s draw due to fatigue.
If Bellingham is absent, Fran Garcia’s position at left-back may come under scrutiny. Ancelotti might also consider altering the team’s formation, possibly shifting to a 4-3-3 setup with Rodrygo, Vinicius Junior, and Joselu in the attacking trio.
In contrast, Braga’s squad is currently free from injuries, with Spain Under-21 left-back Victor Gomez recovering from a minor muscular issue and completing 65 minutes in the recent thrashing of Portimonense.
As a result, coach Jorge has a wealth of options in all areas of the field. He may opt to reintroduce Joe Mendes to the defense if Gomez is not risked twice in quick succession. Additionally, Sikou Niakate could provide a respite for the 39-year-old Jose Fonte if needed.
Jorge’s most significant selection challenge appears to be in the double pivot role, where Vitor Carvalho and Rodrigo Zalazar are vying for the opportunity to partner the regular central figure, Al-Musrati.
