Sabasports Match Preview
UEFA Champions League: RB Leipzig vs Real Madrid
Kickoff Time: 2024-02-14 04:00(HKT)
Source:REUTERS/ ISABEL INFANTES
This is the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 in the
2023-2024 season. RB Leipzig have been struggling with poor form. They have
only managed to secure four points in their last five league games after the
winter break. During the winter transfer window, they said goodbye to veteran
Emil Forsberg and loaned out Timo Werner. Their only notable addition was Eljif
Elmas, an international player from North Macedonia, who joined from Napoli.
This has led to a reduction in the squad’s depth, particularly in terms of
players skilled in wing breakthroughs. In the Champions League group stage, RB
Leipzig primarily relied on quick counterattacks and high-pressure pressing.
They focused their efforts in the midfield, aiming to gain a numerical
advantage in specific areas of the pitch and create opportunities through
interceptions. Their average of 9.8 interceptions per game ranked them second
among the 32 teams in the group stage.
Real Madrid have been in excellent form, winning six consecutive
matches in the Champions League group stage and establishing themselves as
favorites to win the tournament. Since their defeat in the derby against
Atletico Madrid on September 25 of the previous year, Real Madrid have remained
unbeaten. They have shown remarkable consistency, going undefeated in 27
consecutive matches and outperforming other European giants during the same
period. During the winter transfer window, Real Madrid did not make any changes
to their squad, resulting in a stable lineup. In the Champions League group stage,
Real Madrid showcased their proficiency in ball control and fast breaks, with
their forward players displaying strong scoring abilities. They averaged 59%
ball possession per game, ranking fourth among the 32 teams in the group stage.
Additionally, Real Madrid averaged 17.7 key passes per game, ranking first
among all the teams. Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is known for his
tactical expertise and adaptability. He adjusts their formation according to
the situation on the field, which has proven successful in the group stage.
Real Madrid managed to overturn the result and win three matches through
in-game adjustments. Moreover, Real Madrid’s wealth of experience in Champions
League is considered their greatest asset. They have reached at least the semifinals
in the last three seasons.
Given Real Madrid’s superior passing and control abilities compared to
RB Leipzig, it is reasonable to expect that Real Madrid would dominate the game
and dictate the flow of play. If RB Leipzig’s midfield loses momentum, they
could be susceptible to being overrun by Real Madrid’s relentless pressure.
Considering Real Madrid’s advantage in terms of squad depth and quality, it is
likely that they would have the upper hand in the away game and aim for a
convincing victory.
RB Leipzig’s Last 5 Games: DWLLL
24-02-10 Augsburg 2-2 RB Leipzig
24-02-05 RB Leipzig 2-0 Union Berlin
24-01-27 VfB Stuttgart 5-2 RB Leipzig
24-01-21 RB Leipzig 2-3 Bayer Leverkusen
24-01-13 RB Leipzig 0-1 Eintracht Frankfurt
Real Madrid’s Last 5 Games: WDWWW
24-02-11 Real Madrid 4-0 Girona
24-02-05 Real Madrid 1-1 Atletico Madrid
24-02-02 Getafe 0-2 Real Madrid
24-01-27 Las Palmas 1-2 Real Madrid
24-01-21 Real Madrid 3-2 Almeria
Head To Head Record:
22-10-26 RB Leipzig 3-2 Real Madrid
22-09-15 Real Madrid 2-0 RB Leipzig
Prediction: Real Madrid to win