Carlo Ancelotti will play it safe with his team selection for the Champions League match at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu against his former club, Napoli. Real Madrid’s flawless run in the group stage has already secured their spot in the Round of 16 for 2024, but multiple injured players will make it necessary for Ancelotti to rest certain Madrid players to ensure they are fresh for upcoming league games. Napoli, on the other hand, must still work to secure their spot in the knockout stages and will benefit from some key returns from injury.
Real Madrid is missing the majority of their first-choice starting XI due to injuries, with stars like Thibaut Courtois, Vinicius Junior, and Eder Militao not expected to return until 2024. However, Jude Bellingham and Luka Modric have been cleared to play and should start in midfield. Napoli will welcome back star striker Victor Osimhen from injury, and new boss Walter Mazzarri is prepared to start the Nigerian international in Madrid.
Due to the lack of options, Ancelotti will have to keep Bellingham in the team, despite his recent return from a shoulder issue. Napoli’s projected starting lineup includes Mathias Olivera covering for Mario Rui at left back, with Osimhen and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia leading the attack.
The match will be available for streaming and on TV across the world, with different channels and streaming options for viewers in the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, India, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
Sources:
https://www.sportingnews.com/uk/football/news
https://www.sportingnews.com/us/soccer/news/teams-qualified-champions-league-knockout-2023-24-round-16/804add69f4ed67245181aa39
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