Real Madrid vs Liverpool: Benzema and Mendy reinstate as Madrid aims for the quarter finals

Real Madrid lines up Karim Benzema and Ferland Mendy as they host Liverpool in a decisive European night for a place in the quarter finals of the UEFA Champions League. The Spaniards carry momentum to the Santiago Bernabéu, a venue where they have historically faced a tougher road against the Reds, and they aim to seal progress with a confident performance. The atmosphere is electric as Madrid looks to protect their home advantage and push through to the next round.

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Benzema and Mendy return to the Madrid squad

The lineup brings two major boosts. Karim Benzema has overcome ankle issues and is expected to spearhead the attack for the hosts. He is set to lead the line against Liverpool, aiming to add another chapter to his storied European campaign. Ferland Mendy also returns to action after his spell on the sidelines, though indications point to him starting from the bench as a cautious rotation option given the team’s tactical setup. The only setback for Madrid is the ongoing recovery of David Alaba, who remains unavailable as he nears a full return to match fitness.

Carletto will not rely on improvisation in his selections. Thibaut Courtois will guard the goal, with Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, Antonio Rudiger and the dependable Nacho Fernández composing the defensive line. In midfield, questions remain over whether Aurélien Tchouaméni or Eduardo Camavinga will anchor the pivot, while Luka Modric and Toni Kroos keep their places among the playmakers. Up front, Fede Valverde supports Benzema while Vinícius Júnior looks to provide the width and pace Madrid crave in big European nights.

Liverpool arrive with multiple injuries

For their part, Liverpool face significant absences. Thiago Alcántara, Luis Díaz and Calvin Ramsay are out, with Naby Keita, Joe Gómez and Arthur Melo also sidelined or carrying issues that threaten their participation. Captain Jordan Henderson is a late doubt, and the midfield has to adapt to injuries that could disrupt Klopp’s preferred shape. In front of a full crowd at the Bernabéu, Klopp’s men must show a resilient performance and deliver a performance that could overturn the deficit from the first leg. The aim is clear: stage a comeback by scoring early and overwhelming the hosts with relentless energy.

Fans can stay updated on Real Madrid through the club’s official channels and trusted match reporters, with real-time updates and insights as the game unfolds.

LINEUPS OF REAL MADRID VS. LIVERPOOL

Real Madrid (1-4-3-3): Courtois; Carvajal, Militao, Rudiger, Nacho; Modric, Camavinga, Valverde; Benzema, Vinicius Jr, Rodriguez.

Liverpool (1-4-3-3): Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konaté, Van Dijk, Robertson; Fabinho, Milner, Gakpo; Salah, Darwin Núñez, Jota.

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Source: Goal