Coming into this match on the back of an impressive win against Deportivo, Real Madrid will be looking to solidify their claim for reclaiming the Champions League title this season. Although their form has gone sour of late with defeats against Atletico Madrid and Valencia, the LOS BLANCOS will go into this match as favorites.
Here is how they’re expected to lineup in this match: –
Iker Casillas
Although his form hasn’t been great in big matches this season, the 2 times Champions League winner will be unfazed coming into this match. With Keylor Navas sitting on the sidelines, Casillas should start the match from the first whistle.
Danny Carvajal
Even though the Spaniard isn’t the first choice for Carlo Ancelotti under normal circumstances, the latest injury crisis has forced the Italian to reconsider his options at the back. Thus, in the absence of Sergio Ramos and Alvaro Arbeloa, Carvajal is expected to keep his place at the right back position.
Raphael Varane
Although the Frenchman has enormous talent at his peril, the reason of him starting ahead of the likes of Pepe and Ramos has been the same as for Carvajal. Thanks to that game against Sevilla where Real Madrid players fell like leaves, the 22 year old will be in the heart of Real Madrid defense.
Nacho
Having made 5 appearances in the competition this season for Real Madrid, Nacho will play at the left center-back position for Real Madrid. In the 5 matches that he has played this season in Champions League, Real Madrid has conceded just 1 goal
Marcelo
Although the Brazilian is just 26 years of age, he will be the most experienced professional in the Real Madrid back 4 against Schalke-04. He is 1 of the 4 players that has featured in all competitions for Real Madrid this season in Champions League.
Illaramendi
Signed from the Spanish club Real Sociedad for a fee in the region of 27million pounds, the Spaniard was termed as the heir to Xabi Alonso in Real Madrid shirt. He will start in the Real Madrid midfield on the right wing role.
Toni Kroos
Being the German player of the Year for 2014, Kroos has been an instrumental figure for Real Madrid this season. He has managed 1 goal and assisted 7 to his team-mates this season in the LA LIGA.
Isco
In the absence of James Rodriguez who suffered the injury in the same fateful match against Sevilla, the 22 year old Spaniard will play on the left wing role. He has made 5 appearances in the Champions League and is failed to register a goal in the competition.
Bale
Although the Welshman has scored 14 goals for Real Madrid this season, the Real Madrid folklore has been unhappy with his efforts. Being booed in their recent game against Deportivo, Gareth Bale might have a point to prove on Wednesday.
Benzema
When Real Madrid signed Hernandez from Manchester United on loan, it was expected that the Mexican would limit the game time for Benzema. However, with 12 goals under his belt already, Benzema has been the 2nd top-scorer for Real Madrid this season in LA Liga.
Ronaldo
Although the Portuguese has scored 28 goals this season, he is running a dry patch of form currently. Having failed to score a goal in last 3 matches for Real Madrid, Ronaldo would be gunning to end his current dry patch.
Schalke Vs Real Madrid will take place on Wednesday 18th February, at 20:45 GMT [ Match-Centre]
UEFA Champions League: How Real Madrid will lineup against Schalke-04
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