As Real Madrid prepares to host Borussia Dortmund at the Bernabeu in a decisive UEFA Champions League group stage match, head coach Carlo Ancelotti faces critical decisions regarding his starting lineup. Following a narrow 2-1 win over Celta Vigo in La Liga, Ancelotti is eager to fine-tune his squad, with the Dortmund match offering a major test.
In his pre-match press conference, Ancelotti acknowledged the challenge posed by Dortmund, emphasizing their intense playing style and individual talent. Despite changes to their squad over the summer, he noted that Dortmund remains a dangerous and demanding opponent. “They are a tough team with strong individuals, and their intensity will test us,” Ancelotti remarked.
The Italian manager suggested that a fast-paced, end-to-end game would suit Real Madrid’s strengths, which lie in exploiting space rather than maintaining heavy possession. However, he also stressed the need for defensive improvement, as the team has been less solid at the back this season.
For the match, Ancelotti is set to shake up his lineup from their previous league outing. Thibaut Courtois will start in goal, with Ferland Mendy returning at left-back in place of Fran Garcia. Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger will continue as the central defenders, while Lucas Vazquez holds onto the right-back position. In midfield, Ancelotti has made the bold decision to drop Aurelien Tchouameni and switch to a 4-3-3 formation. Eduardo Camavinga will play as the lone pivot, while Jude Bellingham and Fede Valverde will occupy more advanced midfield roles.
In the attack, Ancelotti’s biggest change is the decision to bench veteran captain Luka Modric, with Rodrygo coming into the starting XI on the right wing. Kylian Mbappé will lead the line as the central striker, with Vinicius Jr. on the left to complete a dynamic front three. This trio is expected to be key in breaking down Dortmund’s defense and creating scoring opportunities.
Ancelotti’s lineup reflects his tactical flexibility, balancing defensive stability with attacking firepower, particularly with El Clasico on the horizon in just a few days. As Real Madrid fans anticipate this crucial encounter, attention will be on how Ancelotti’s decisions play out against Dortmund’s aggressive style of play.
Real Madrid’s lineup for the clash against Borussia Dortmund is: Courtois; Mendy, Rudiger, Militao, Vazquez; Camavinga, Bellingham, Valverde; Vinicius Jr., Mbappé, Rodrygo.
The big question now is whether Ancelotti’s team can deliver on the European stage and push forward in their pursuit of another Champions League crown.