Real Madrid have nothing but pride at stake when they host CSKA Moscow in their final group game in this season’s Champions League.
The holders have already secured top spot in Group G and are likely to make some changes to their starting line-up for the visit of the Russia side. CSKA have no chance of making the last 16, but could make it through to the Europa League if they avoid defeat.
Latest odds
CSKA were victorious when the two sides met in Moscow earlier in the competition but offer them at 12/1 (13.00) to record another win.
Real Madrid have not lost a group game at the Bernabeu since 2009 and are available at 2/11 (1.18) while the draw can be backed at 13/2 (7.50).
Team news
Santiago Solari is likely to rest a few players given his side have already wrapped up top spot, although the manager does have a few injuries to contend with.
Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Nacho Fernandez are all likely to be unavailable, while youngster Fede Valverde could get a chance in central midfield alongside Marcos Llorente who has started the last four matches.
CSKA meanwhile have a few injury concerns too with midfielders Alan Dzagoev and Ilzat Akhmetov likely to be missing along with winger Aleksandr Makarov.
Preview
Back in October CSKA won 1-0 thanks to an injury time goal, but Real Madrid had dominated the game. Los Blancos had 26 shots, 76 per cent possession and hit the woodwork several times in a game they should really have won.
That match in Russia took place with Julen Lopetegui at the helm and the team dynamic was pretty negative. Since Lopetegui was replaced by Solari, Madrid’s fortunes have improved dramatically with the European champions recording eight wins in nine matches.
Tips and predictions
It has already been a relatively turbulent season for Los Blancos and they will be keen to maintain their momentum with a win, so while mathematically there is nothing riding on the game, emotionally it retains a real significance.
Real Madrid to win and under 3.5 goals in the game is priced at 13/10 (2.30) and this selection has paid out in both of the side’s previous home games in the competition as well as in their last game at Roma.
Prices correct at time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.
Real Madrid to win and under 3.5 goals at 13/10 (2.30) for a 1.5pt stake with
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