Osasuna vs Real Madrid: A high-stakes La Liga matchup
Carlo Ancelotti faces a tough selection ahead of a crucial league encounter as Real Madrid travels to Pamplona. With Karim Benzema sidelined by injury, and Toni Kroos battling illness, Madrid must adapt while Vinicius Junior is set to return to action. The squad’s decisions will shape Madrid’s push to close the gap on Barcelona at the top of La Liga.
The visit to Osasuna comes at a tense moment for Madrid. Eight points separate the reigning champions from their Catalan rivals, and every result matters as the hunt for the title intensifies. Osasuna, fighting to secure a European berth, provides a stern test for Ancelotti and his players.
Live coverage of Osasuna versus Real Madrid is available from official broadcasters and outlets reporting on La Liga action. Fans can follow real-time updates as the match unfolds.
Benzema’s absence and the tactical rethink
Madrid will miss their leading attacking reference, Karim Benzema, due to injury. This setback places additional responsibility on the rest of the forward line and requires careful planning in attack. Toni Kroos remains under scrutiny after a stomach flu raised questions about his readiness, though his participation is still on the table. Vinicius Junior is anticipated to contribute once more, and the goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is expected to return after dealing with a groin issue.
The goalkeeping duties are likely to be a contest between the returning Courtois and Andriy Lunin, while the defense appears strengthened with Antonio Rüdiger back in the starting lineup. Eder Militao and David Alaba are considered fixtures at the back. The right wing position presents a decision between Lucas Vazquez and Nacho Fernandez, each hoping to secure a spot. In midfield, Luka Modric and Aurélien Tchouaméni are expected to reboot the central axis after missing the previous match, with Daniel Ceballos or Eduardo Camavinga providing additional options on the flank. If a more defensive shape is chosen, Fede Valverde could be deployed in a more central role, allowing Marco Asensio to partner with Vinicius and Rodrygo as a makeshift forward trio supporting a false nine arrangement.
Osasuna’s squad dynamics and absences
Osasuna arrive in midweek form facing their own personnel issues. Regulars Juan Cruz and Chimy Ávila are suspended, while Nacho Vidal has been sidelined for several weeks with injury. David Garcia has gastroenteritis, yet early indications suggest he will be available for selection. In his absence, Unai Garcia could partner Aridane Hernandez in central defense.
Coach Jagoba Arrasate must decide whether Diego Moreno or Jon Moncayola will fill the right-sided role, a decision that could reshape Osasuna’s midfield balance. Lucas Torró and Moi Gomez are among the players vying for starting roles. Up front, Abde Ez and Ruben Garcia are among the attackers contesting positions alongside Ante Budimir and Kike Barja, making Osasuna a flexible and unpredictable opponent.
As the teams prepare for kickoff, the match looms as a potential turning point in their respective campaigns. Updates and in-game analysis will be shared across official feeds and match broadcasts, with ongoing commentary to keep fans informed.
Osasuna lineups Real Madrid lineups
Osasuna (formation 1-4-3-3): Sergio Herrera; Diego Moreno, Pablo Ibanez, Aridane, David Garcia, Manu Sanchez; Moncayola, Lucas Torro, Moi Gomez; Abde, Ruben Garcia, Barja
Real Madrid (formation 1-4-3-3): Courtois, Lunin; Carvajal, Nacho, Militao, Rudiger, Alaba; Modric, Tchouaméni, Ceballos; Valverde, Rodrygo, Vinicius
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The call of Osasuna vs Real Madrid
As of now, both coaches have kept tactical plans close to the vest ahead of the clash, with decisions set to be clarified closer to kickoff.
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Source: Goal