Real Madrid Face Tactical Test at Getafe Before Copa Showdown
Real Madrid are bracing for a gritty midweek challenge as they travel to the Estadio Coliseum for a pivotal La Liga clash with Getafe. The fixture arrives at a delicate juncture in Los Blancos’ campaign, wedged between a hard-fought league win over Athletic Club and the high-stakes Copa del Rey final against archrivals Barcelona.
Despite controlling possession and creating ample chances last weekend, Real Madrid had to wait until stoppage time for Federico Valverde’s decisive goal, keeping the pressure on league leaders Barcelona. They remain within striking distance, trailing by four points as the title race intensifies.
But before turning their attention to silverware in the cup, Carlo Ancelotti’s side must avoid stumbling in Getafe, a notoriously physical and disciplined opponent. Under José Bordalás, the hosts have developed a reputation for frustrating Spain’s top clubs with their relentless pressing and structured defense. While currently 12th in the standings and coming off two consecutive losses, Getafe remains one of La Liga’s stingiest defenses.
Match Details
- Date: Wednesday, 23 April
- Kick-off Time: 20:30 BST / 15:30 ET / 12:30 PT
- Location: Estadio Coliseum, Getafe, Spain
- Referee: Jose Maria Sanchez Martinez
- VAR: Daniel Jesus Trujillo Suarez
Form Guide
Getafe (Last 5 matches):
- L 0-1 vs Espanyol
- L 1-3 vs Las Palmas
- W 4-0 vs Real Valladolid
- L 1-2 vs Villarreal
- W 2-1 vs Osasuna
Real Madrid (Last 5 matches):
- W 1-0 vs Athletic Club
- L 1-2 vs Arsenal
- W 1-0 vs Alaves
- L 0-3 vs Arsenal
- L 1-2 vs Valencia
TV & Streaming Information
UK: ITVX, Premier Sports, LaLigaTV, ITV 4
US: ESPN+, fuboTV, ESPN2, ESPN App, ESPN Deportes
Canada: TSN+, TSN1
Team News & Predicted Lineups
Getafe:
Suspension sidelines Christantus Uche, but Diego Rico is set to return after serving his own ban. Juan Bernat could rejoin the lineup to provide attacking support from midfield.
Predicted XI (4-5-1):
Soria; Djene, Duarte, Alderete, Rico; Coba, Terrats, Milla, Arambarri, Bernat; Juanmi.
Real Madrid:
With the Copa del Rey final looming, Ancelotti is expected to rest key players, including Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior. Kylian Mbappe is recovering from an ankle knock and likely won’t be risked. Endrick may see more minutes, while Diaz and Vazquez should return to the lineup.
Predicted XI (4-3-1-2):
Courtois; Vazquez, Asencio, Alaba, Garcia; Camavinga, Ceballos, Valverde; Brahim; Rodrygo, Endrick.
Match Outlook
Although Real Madrid has dominated Getafe in recent encounters, the timing and context of this match make it far from routine. Ancelotti’s squad rotation could blunt Madrid’s usual rhythm, giving Getafe a window to capitalize. With passionate home support and a disruptive style of play, Getafe will look to derail Madrid’s title ambitions at least temporarily.
Prediction: Getafe 1-1 Real Madrid
