Real Madrid prepares to face Elche at the Santiago Bernabéu on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in a La Liga matchday 28 fixture. Coming off a significant victory against Manchester City, manager Arbeloa has named his squad for the contest, aiming for another three points in the championship race. The match is scheduled for a 9:00 pm CEST kickoff and will be broadcast on Orange TV and Movistar LaLiga.
This match presents an opportunity for Real Madrid to maintain momentum as they navigate a busy schedule, sandwiched between the two legs of their Champions League Round of 16 tie against Manchester City. The team secured a 3-0 win in the first leg at the Bernabéu and will defend that lead next Tuesday. Following the Elche match, a derby awaits at their home stadium, concluding a demanding month of competition before international commitments start. Currently, Real Madrid sits in second place in La Liga with 63 points, trailing Barcelona by four points.
Arbeloa emphasized the team’s focus on securing a win against Elche, stating, “We are only focused on winning against Elche,” as reported in pre-match press conferences. Real Madrid will be looking for their third consecutive victory, following wins at Balaídos and against Manchester City at the Bernabéu. The team is bolstered by the excellent form of Vinicius Jr., who has scored their last four goals and was recognized as the Champions League Player of the Week.
Elche, currently positioned 17th in La Liga with 26 points, will be aiming to climb further away from the relegation zone. They hold a one-point advantage over the bottom three teams. Their record stands at 5 wins, 11 draws, and 11 losses as they enter matchday 28.
Real Madrid Squad List
Here is the full squad list announced for the match against Elche:
- Goalkeepers: Courtois, Lunin, and Sergio Mestre
- Defenders: Carvajal, Trent, Fran García, Rüdiger, Huijsen, and Diego Aguado
- Midfielders: Camavinga, Valverde, Tchouameni, Arda Güler, Manuel Ángel, Palacios, and Thiago
- Forwards: Vini Jr., Gonzalo, Brahim, and Yáñez
The inclusion of Trent Alexander-Arnold suggests a potential rotation opportunity for Carvajal, allowing the latter some rest ahead of the crucial Champions League return leg. Fran García is as well expected to feature in the starting lineup, providing further squad depth.
La Liga Standings – Top 10 (March 14, 2026)
Here’s a look at the top 10 teams in La Liga as of today, according to BBC Sport:
- Barcelona – 67 points
- Real Madrid – 63 points
- Atletico Madrid – 57 points
- Villarreal – 55 points
- Real Betis – 43 points
- Celta Vigo – 40 points
- Espanyol – 37 points
- Real Sociedad – 35 points
- Getafe – 35 points
- Athletic Club – 35 points
Real Madrid’s performance against Elche will be crucial as they continue their pursuit of Barcelona at the top of the table. A win would close the gap to just two points, intensifying the title race. The team’s ability to balance league commitments with their Champions League aspirations will be a key factor in their success this season.
Following this match, all eyes will turn to Real Madrid’s Champions League return leg against Manchester City, a fixture that promises to be a thrilling encounter. The upcoming derby match will also be a significant test of their form and resolve. Fans will be eager to see how Arbeloa manages his squad and navigates this challenging period.
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