Real Madrid continues their quest to stay in the La Liga title race on Wednesday against Getafe. They aim to keep pace with Barcelona in the final weeks of the season. This Wednesday`s game falls within a crucial period for Real Madrid, potentially defining their season and marking the end of an era. Their recent disappointing elimination from the UEFA Champions League by Arsenal ended one trophy pursuit and raised doubts about `Los Blancos“ ability to secure any silverware this campaign. This turn of events is surprising given their high expectations at the start of the season, but their inconsistent results over the past eight months underscore these concerns.
Sunday`s 1-0 win against Athletic Club, though not flawless, was significant. It helped re-establish Real Madrid`s credentials as contenders for both the La Liga title and the Copa del Rey. This result meant `Los Blancos` entered Matchday 33 within striking distance of Barcelona, trailing the top spot by just three points. Remaining in the title race for at least a few more days is vital, especially leading up to the Copa del Rey final on Saturday against Barcelona, where both teams will have their initial opportunity to claim major silverware this season.
Match Details
- Date: Wednesday, April 23 | Time: 3:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Estadio Coliseum — Getafe, Spain
- TV: ESPN2 | Live Stream: ESPN+
- Odds: Getafe +380; Draw +260; Real Madrid -145
Storylines
Getafe: Sitting 12th and eight points above the relegation zone with six games remaining, Getafe appears to be in a holding pattern for the rest of the season with little left to play for in this match. Adding to their difficulties, Allan Nyom, Diego Rico, and Christantus Uche are sidelined, and Borja Mayoral might not be ready to play the full 90 minutes. Facing Real Madrid during a critical phase for the visitors, Getafe manager Jose Bordalas admitted the challenge. “I always say it`s never a good time to face Real Madrid,” he stated in his pre-match press conference on Tuesday. “They`re one of the best teams in the world and are still in the game in two competitions. They haven`t stopped winning titles, with one of the best squads in the world. It`s never a good time; we know the difficulties. The difference is huge in everything.”
Real Madrid: Carlo Ancelotti`s side enters this game as the clear favorite. They could potentially get away with another imperfect performance as long as they secure all three points, although they will be without Kylian Mbappe due to a minor injury. While a fixture between the title-contending second-place team and the 12th-placed side seems routine, this match carries significant weight beyond the title race. It is becoming increasingly likely that Ancelotti will leave Real Madrid before next season, with speculation even suggesting a possible departure after this weekend`s Copa del Rey final. Regardless, Wednesday`s match is almost certainly among Ancelotti`s final games at the club, and this closing period could significantly influence the direction for his successor. The incoming manager already faces a substantial task with a squad that boasts stars but lacks balance, and the prospect of a trophyless season could make the next boss`s job even tougher.
Predicted Lineups
Getafe:
- David Soria
- Djene Dakonam
- Domingos Duarte
- Omar Alderete
- Juan Iglesias
- Ramon Terrats
- Luis Milla
- Mauro Arambarri
- Juan Bernat
- Bertug Yıldırım
- Juanmi
Real Madrid:
- Thibaut Courtois
- Federico Valverde
- Raul Asencio
- Antonio Rudiger
- Eduardo Camavinga
- Luka Modric
- Aurelien Tchouameni
- Dani Ceballos
- Jude Bellingham
- Rodrygo
- Vinicius Junior
Prediction
This match is Real Madrid`s to lose. Despite their season-long inconsistency and the stakes involved, it feels highly improbable that they won`t collect all three points. As has often been the case with them this season, however, it may not be a particularly thrilling game, so anticipate a modest scoreline. Pick: Getafe 0, Real Madrid 1
