Real Madrid is set to face off against Leganes on November 24, 2024, as they conclude Matchday 14 of the 2024/2025 La Liga season. It’s sure to be quite the event for soccer fans, especially those tuning in from the USA who want to catch all the action live.
With recent matches leading to some shifting dynamics at the top of the table, Real Madrid sees this as a golden opportunity to narrow the gap between them and their fierce rivals, Barcelona. After Barcelona's surprising 2-2 tie with Celta de Vigo, Madrid can capitalize on this slip-up and cut the deficit to just four points with a win. It’s all to play for, especially with the stakes so high, as every point counts, especially for Leganes, who find themselves near the relegation zone.
The importance of this match is underscored by the fact Madrid's recent fixture against Osasuna ended with them comfortably winning 4-0, but not without cost. That game saw three players injured, which led head coach Carlo Ancelotti scrambling to put together his starting XI for the upcoming clash.
When does this showdown commence? Kickoff is scheduled for 12:30 PM ET. Here are the times for different U.S. time zones: 11:30 AM CT, 10:30 AM MT, and 9:30 AM PT. The anticipation is building as fans count down to when the whistle blows.
Fans across the United States will have several avenues to watch the game live. The match will be streamed through various platforms, with Fubo offering the opportunity to watch Leganes vs. Real Madrid online for free during their trial period. Other platforms including ABC, ESPN Deportes, ESPN+, DirecTV Stream, and Sling Orange will also provide coverage for those who want to catch up on the action, making it widely accessible for everyone aiming to experience this important match.
The stakes are particularly high for Leganes, who currently sit perilously close to the relegation zone with only 14 points to their name. Their upcoming challenge against the mighty Real Madrid will be about survival as well as garnering precious points. Each team is set to bring passion and purpose to the pitch, where fans can expect drama and excitement.
Real Madrid's recent injury woes add layers of difficulty for Ancelotti. Dani Carvajal's ACL injury means he’ll be out for the season, joining fellow teammate Eder Militao, who has been similarly sidelined. Lucas Vázquez is also healing from injury, which means Fede Valverde will have to step up significantly, likely playing as right back.
With injury concerns swirling around, one of the more interesting aspects of this match will be viewing Ancelotti's lineup. He has hinted at changes due to the injuries but remains confident. The lineup is expected to feature Thibaut Courtois back between the posts after recovering from his thigh injury. Valverde will be pivotal, playing right back, with young talent Raúl Ásencio shouldering responsibilities alongside seasoned defender Toni Rüdiger and Ferland Mendy, who complete the defensive framework.
Midfield maestro Luka Modrić will be setting the tempo, flanked by Eduardo Camavinga leaping at the chance to stitch the midfield together and Jude Bellingham hoping to appear on the score sheet once again. The excitement intensifies as they face off against Leganes. The attacking front will likely see Vinicius Jr. on the left, Kylian Mbappe spearheading the attack, and Brahim Díaz complementing them as they aim for goal-scoring opportunities.
The expectations for Real Madrid heading to this match are high. With the capability of slashing Barcelona's current lead to just four points, everyone within the squad understands the long-term repercussions of this game. The players share similar sentiments with Ancelotti, who expressed his belief about maintaining the winning momentum post-international break. He emphasized last match's sentiments, stating his players are ready to perform and eager to bring home another victory.
On the other hand, Leganes will bring their fighting spirit as they look to rally against one of Spain's greatest clubs. Having only mustered 14 points so far, the team understands the dire need for points to move away from the relegation zone. A win against Real Madrid could breathe new life not only for their league status but also boost confidence among the squad for the matches to follow.
This Matchday 14 clash promises to bring forth intense action, with Real Madrid aiming to solidify their position and Leganes desperate to claw their way out of the relegation spots. Brace yourselves—it's set to be ball-to-the-wall soccer with every kick counting.
