Alright, so today I figured I’d try predicting Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid lineups – you know, for fun. Just grabbed my coffee, opened up four different fan forums on my laptop, plus Twitter and some sports news sites. Wanted to see what normal folks were guessing before checking “expert” opinions.
The Starting Point
First, I jotted down Real Madrid’s usual starters from last week. But then remembered Courtois tore his ACL ages ago, Lunin’s been in goal lately. Big miss that. Also saw Rudiger’s name everywhere – dude’s been a wall. But defenders? Injury mess. Alaba’s knee exploded months ago, Militão’s still recovering. Had to scratch those off immediately.
Midfield felt easier: Modrić and Kroos are ancient but still playing every other game. Younger guys like Valverde and Camavinga should start? Checked Carlo’s press conference – yep, he basically said they’re fit. Up front obviously Vini Jr. and Bellingham. Rodrygo’s been quiet though, wondered if Brahim Diaz might sneak in.
Sociedad’s Puzzle
This was trickier. Sociedad rotates like crazy! Saw Take Kubo was doubtful – hamstring thing. Checked their last lineup sheet: Oyarzabal played full 90, probably starts again. Midfielders Merino and Zubimendi always play unless injured. Defense? Le Normand just got back from injury, might not risk him. Went with Zubeldia and Pacheco after seeing fan votes.
-
My Final Guesses:
- Madrid Defense: Carvajal – Nacho – Rudiger – Mendy (cramped leg but played before)
- Madrid Attack: Vini Jr. – Rodrygo – Bellingham tucked behind
- Sociedad Surprise: André Silva over Sadiq (stats show he flops in big games)
Almost forgot the managers! Carlo loves his old guard, so kept Kroos in. Sociedad’s Imanol? Total wildcard. Changed my midfield prediction three times after reading he experimented in training.
Finished by comparing my notes against two YouTube analysts. They both had Merino starting for Sociedad but disagreed on wingers. One had Barrenetxea, other picked Becker. Went with Becker – kid’s pace burns tired defenders late game. Would Carlo rest Modrić? Nah, too important. Scribbled his name last minute.
Anyways, these lineup headaches remind me of FIFA career mode disasters. Remember last year? Put Dani Ceballos as left-back during an injury crisis and conceded four. Sometimes real managers do equally bonkers stuff!