AI-written editorial preview · updated 2026-08-28 15:03 UTC
Real Madrid host Malaga in LaLiga clash at the Bernabeu
Sunday afternoon at the Estadio Bernabeu, Real Madrid welcome Malaga for a LaLiga encounter on matchday 3. The hosts enter the fixture looking to build on a strong start to the domestic campaign, while the visitors arrive seeking their first victory of the season.
Expected lineups and personnel availability
Real Madrid are expected to line up with Thibaut Courtois in goal, protected by a defensive unit featuring Denzel Dumfries, Ibrahima Konate, Dean Huijsen, and Marc Cucurella. The midfield should see the creative trio of Bernardo Silva, Federico Valverde, and Jude Bellingham, while Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Arda Guler are expected to lead the attack. Endrick and Raul Asencio remain sidelined due to injury.
For Malaga, Alfonso Herrero is the expected starter in goal, behind a back four of Carlos Puga, Angel Recio, Einar Galilea, and Rafita. The midfield is expected to comprise Izan Merino, Dani Lorenzo, and Carlos Dotor, with David Larrubia, Joaquin Munoz, and Chupe tasked with leading the frontline. Diego Murillo is unavailable for the visitors due to injury.
Real Madrid's momentum in the early season
Real Madrid have carried significant form into this match, having secured back-to-back victories in their opening LaLiga fixtures. Most recently, they dispatched Real Sociedad 4-1 at home, following a hard-fought 2-1 win away at Espanyol. The attacking output has been particularly notable, with Kylian Mbappe finding the net consistently during his recent appearances.
Malaga's search for consistency
Malaga have faced a challenging start to their LaLiga campaign, beginning with a 2-0 defeat away to Atletico Madrid before playing out a 1-1 draw against Deportivo de A Coruna. While the side has struggled to find a rhythm in the top flight, they will look to the attacking contributions of Chupe to provide a threat on the counter. The team remains focused on tightening their defensive structure to compete at this level.
Historical context at the Bernabeu
Recent history between these two clubs in LaLiga has generally favoured the side from the capital. In their last meeting in April 2018, Real Madrid claimed a 2-1 victory away from home, and the previous encounter at the Estadio Bernabeu in November 2017 ended in a 3-2 win for the hosts. Malaga have found points difficult to come by in this fixture, though they did manage a 1-1 draw in February 2016.
Tactical considerations for the weekend
With Real Madrid expected to dominate possession, the tactical battle will likely centre on Malaga's ability to transition quickly through the midfield. Jude Bellingham's role in linking play will be crucial for the hosts, while Malaga will rely on the defensive discipline of their back four to withstand sustained pressure. The match will test whether Malaga can disrupt the rhythm of a high-scoring Real Madrid side in front of their home supporters.
Malaga
4-4-2
● Confirmed
9
Chupe
8
Dotor
11
↓61′
Munoz
14
↓46′
Rodriguez
23
↓87′
Merino
10
Larrubia
31
Rafita
4
↓74′
Galilea
15
Recio
3
↓60′
Puga
1
Herrero
Bench (14)
Pablo Martinez ↑46′ · Jose Salinas ↑60′ · Juan Cruz ↑61′ · Haitam Abaida ↑74′ · Ramon Enriquez ↑87′ · Alex Pastor · Carlos Lopez · Eneko Jauregi · Julen Lobete · Moussa Diarra · Aaron Ochoa · Adrian Nino · Fernando Calero · Diego Murillo
Coach · Juan Funes
Confirmed by FIFA officials.
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