: Real Madrid play key game against Espanyol #IndiaNEWS #Sports Madrid, March 10 (IANS) Real Madrid have a vital home game against Espanyol on Saturday as they look to remain in the battle for the title.

Real Madrid play key game against Espanyol #IndiaNEWS #Sports
Madrid, March 10 (IANS) Real Madrid have a vital home game against Espanyol on Saturday as they look to remain in the battle for the title.
Carlo Ancelottis side will kick off nine points behind FC Barcelona, but knowing that Barca have a difficult visit to play Athletic Club Bilbao on Sunday and that next weekend, they travel to the Camp Nou for the second league Clasico of the season.
A win against Espanyol will cut the gap at the top to six points ahead of Barcas game on Sunday and should Barca drop points in San Mames, a win in the Clasico would bring Barca back into touching distance, a Xinhua report said.
Its an important moment in the season because we want to go into next Sundays game against Barcelona in the best possible frame of mind. That means defeating Espanyol and reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League on Wednesday, said Ancelotti.
The big issue for Real Madrid seems to be in attack, after a 1-1 draw at home to Atletico Madrid, a 1-0 defeat at home to Barca in the Copa del Rey and a 0-0 draw away to Betis last Sunday.
Karim Benzema misses out after sitting out training on Wednesday and Thursday with an ankle injury.
He was hoping to recover but hasnt been able to because he hasnt trained with the team. He started individual training today and will be available for Wednesdays game. His absence inevitably has an impact because hes such an important player, commented Ancelotti, who confirmed Rodrygo will replace the Frenchman.
Rodrygo will be playing as a center forward against Espanyol. He has to play where the team needs him. He can play in a lot of positions and we have to take advantage of his quality, said the coach.
IANS
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