Sergio López de Vicente, a prominent writer for the Real Madrid section, shared his thoughts on the critical matchup ahead, noting the significance of recovering star player Kylian Mbappé. He emphasized that the best course of action for Mbappé is to take the necessary time to recuperate fully. “He should stop everything for as long as it takes and return as the true Mbappé,” López stated, highlighting the player’s remarkable abilities and his role in the team.
Mbappé’s current condition, which he described as being at 70-80% performance with concerning inconsistencies, is not advantageous for either the player or the team, regardless of the statistics. López emphasized that this upcoming match represents a crucial opportunity for the team, aligning with a strong lineup. With a ‘diamond’ formation in midfield, Trent Alexander-Arnold in the right-back position, and Gonzalo leading the offense, he stated that this lineup is the best possible given the circumstances.
Looking ahead to the match against Real Madrid, López expressed cautious optimism. He believes Madrid is the favorite and expects them to score early, yet he cautioned that the advantage would be slight. A single goal from Benfica could trigger significant pressure, making this a high-stakes game with much to lose and little to gain. “These are the most dangerous nights,” he warned.
This encounter is pivotal not only for the players but also for the fans, showcasing the resilience and skill of a team striving for greatness. The hopes are high that the team can rise to the occasion, especially with a fully fit Mbappé on the horizon.