Real Madrid suffer double blow ahead of Celtic game

Celtic won a lot of plaudits for their first-half performance against Real Madrid, when the two teams met in the opening match of the Champions League group stage. That display raised hopes that the Hoops could make it to the knockout phase of the competition. Of course, we all know how that turned out and Ange Postecoglou’s side are set to bottom the group.

They do have pride to play for though, when they travel to Santiago Bernabeu, to take on Real Madrid once again. Also, with no pressure of qualification on their shoulders, perhaps the players will perform better. It is their finishing that has let them down in Europe time after time, not their performances.

On the other hand, Real Madrid go into the game with the top spot in the group still up for grabs. Carlo Ancelotti’s side do have a few injury worries though.

As reported by Marca, Real Madrid trained without Karim Benzema and Aurelien Tchouameni on Monday. The duo remain doubtful for the upcoming game against Celtic.

Real Madrid handed Benzema and Tchouameni problem before facing Celtic

It goes without saying that both Benzema and Tchouameni are two of the most important players in this Real Madrid side. The striker is the current Ballon d’Or holder and inspired Los Blancos to the Champions League title last season. On the other hand, the midfielder arrived in the summer from AS Monaco and has established himself as the general in the middle of the park following Casemiro’s move to Manchester United.

Of course, even if Benzema and Tchouameni do not end up playing in midweek, Celtic will still go into the game as heavy underdogs.

This is their last chance to win a game in the Champions League this season. Anything other than a defeat at the Santiago Bernabeu against Real Madrid would be a memorable result though.