Real Madrid's potential starting lineup in the Champions League vs Shakhtar Donetsk

Real Madrid can seal a place in the Round of 16 of the Champions with a win over Shakhtar in Warsaw.

There are only four sure players assured of making a start for Real Madrid in Warsaw this evening: Lunin, Mendy, Kroos and Benzema. The Ukranian goalkeeper, once again will stand in for Courtois still suffering with sciatica. Ancelotti confirmed in Monday’s press conference that the plan for the Belgian goalkeeper is to return to training on Thursday and be ready for Sunday’s El Clásico.

The other three were rested in Getafe and will start in Tuesday’s game with the Italian coach confirming that his team will now feature rotations, movements, breaks and opportunities.

There is a doubt over (ever-present this season) Vinicius starting and if the Brazilian does indeed start on the bench, the door would open on the left wing for Hazard or Rodrygo. The Belgian has not participated since the match against Mallorca and the Brazilian has stated in public that he feels more comfortable on the left flank. Asensio is likely to get the nod to start on the right benefiting from the rotation policy.

After his exertions in Getafe Militao may be rested and Nacho and Rüdiger would play together at the heart of the defence with Lucas Vázquez as right back with Mendy on the other flank. The centre of the park is likely to feature Camavinga, Tchouameni and Kroos with Modric starting on the bench.

Possible lineup in Warsaw

The Ancelotti team that will be hoping to mathematically seal a place in the next stage of the Champions League will likely feature: Lunin in goal, a rear-guard of Lucas Vázquez, Nacho, Rüdiger and Mendy; Tchouameni, Kroos and Camavinga in the center with Benzema upfront augmented with Asensio and on the left, Hazard or Rodrygo.