Real Madrid Vs Sevilla: 5 Key Battles That Will Decide Los Blancos' Final Match Of 2025
The curtain is set to fall on a dramatic football year for Real Madrid, with a crucial La Liga fixture against a struggling but dangerous Sevilla side on the agenda today, Saturday, December 20, 2025. This Matchday 17 clash at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is more than just three points; it is a vital opportunity for Los Blancos to cement their position at the top of the table and head into the winter break with a psychological edge over their title rivals.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti has stressed the importance of finishing the calendar year strong, especially in front of the home faithful, as the team grapples with a significant injury list that has tested the depth of the squad. The spotlight will be intensely focused on the tactical setup and the performance of star players like Jude Bellingham and the highly anticipated Kylian Mbappé, as Real Madrid seeks to maintain their dominant home form against the Andalusian visitors.
Matchday 17: Real Madrid vs Sevilla – Full Team News & Details
The atmosphere in Madrid is one of cautious optimism, despite the team's ongoing injury crisis. The sheer number of sidelined players has been a major talking point, with the club reportedly suffering the highest injury-related costs among Europe’s top clubs this season.
The match is scheduled for a late kick-off at 9:00 PM local time (CET) at the Bernabéu, a venue where Real Madrid have been almost impenetrable this campaign. Sevilla, meanwhile, arrive in the capital in desperate need of points, languishing in the bottom half of the table despite their historical pedigree.
Real Madrid Injury Report: Key Absentees
- Dani Carvajal (Knee Injury): The veteran right-back remains a long-term absentee and is not expected to return until late January.
- Éder Militão (Hamstring): The central defender’s return is eagerly awaited, but he is still sidelined, exacerbating the defensive crisis.
- Toni Kroos & Luka Modrić: While not officially injured, Ancelotti is expected to manage the minutes of the experienced midfield duo, making way for younger talent.
- Kylian Mbappé (Physical Discomfort): The French superstar has been dealing with minor physical discomfort but is widely predicted to lead the line.
- Other Absentees: Midfielders Dani Ceballos (Gastrointestinal discomfort) and young defender Raúl Asencio (Fever) are also listed on the injury report.
Ancelotti’s Predicted XI: The Tactical Setup Against Sevilla
Carlo Ancelotti, known for his pragmatic approach, is expected to deploy a fluid 4-3-3 or a 4-2-3-1 formation to maximize the attacking threat of his star forwards while managing the defensive vulnerabilities caused by injuries. The return of certain key figures will be crucial for the team's balance.
The Expected Real Madrid Starting Lineup (4-3-3)
The predicted lineup sees a blend of experience and youth, with the midfield trio being key to controlling the tempo and supplying the potent front three.
- Goalkeeper (GK): Thibaut Courtois
- Defenders (RB, CB, CB, LB): Federico Valverde (at right-back to cover Carvajal’s absence), Antonio Rüdiger, Dean Huijsen, Fran García
- Midfielders (CDM, CM, CAM): Aurélien Tchouaméni, Arda Güler, Jude Bellingham
- Forwards (RW, ST, LW): Rodrygo, Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius Junior
The inclusion of Dean Huijsen, a promising young center-back, alongside the commanding Antonio Rüdiger, is a necessity due to the injuries to the senior defenders. In midfield, the dynamic presence of Jude Bellingham, who continues to be one of the top entities in the world of football, will be tasked with linking the play and driving forward runs. The creative flair of Arda Güler is also expected to be utilized from the start.
5 Key Battles That Will Define the Match
The outcome of this final match of the year will hinge on several individual and tactical matchups across the pitch. Sevilla, under their current management, will look to frustrate Real Madrid and exploit any spaces left by the high-pressing Los Blancos.
1. Bellingham vs Sevilla's Midfield Pivot
Jude Bellingham's role as the attacking midfielder is crucial. He will face a tough battle against Sevilla's deep-lying midfielders, who will try to physically disrupt his passing lines and late runs into the box. If Bellingham can find space between the lines, Real Madrid's attack will flourish.
2. Mbappé vs Sevilla's Center Backs
Despite his minor discomfort, Kylian Mbappé is the most dangerous entity on the field. His blistering pace and clinical finishing will be a constant threat to the Sevilla defense. The ability of Sevilla’s center-backs to manage his off-the-ball movement, especially on quick transitions, will be paramount to their chances of a result.
3. Vinicius Jr. vs Right Back
Vinicius Junior remains one of the world's best wingers. His one-on-one duels against the opposition's right-back will be a primary source of attack. His ability to draw fouls and create chances for Mbappé and Rodrygo will be key to unlocking a potentially stubborn Sevilla defense.
4. Tchouaméni's Defensive Shield
With a makeshift defense, the performance of defensive midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni is more critical than ever. He must act as the primary shield, breaking up counter-attacks and protecting the young center-back pairing. His duel in the center of the park will dictate the flow of the game.
5. Ancelotti vs Sevilla's Coach
The tactical battle between the two coaches will be fascinating. Ancelotti needs to find a way to break down a deep block without leaving his defense exposed. His in-game management and substitutions, potentially bringing on fresh legs like Brahim Díaz or Luka Modrić, will be instrumental in the final half-hour.
The Race for La Liga: Form Guide & Prediction
Real Madrid enters the match as the overwhelming favorite, boasting a strong track record against Sevilla at the Bernabéu. The betting odds reflect this dominance, with Los Merengues having an estimated 83% chance of securing a victory.
Current Form (La Liga Standings):
- Real Madrid: Currently second in the league with 39 points from 17 matches, they are chasing their bitter rivals at the top. A win here is essential to maintain pressure and finish the year on a high.
- Sevilla: The Andalusian club has struggled significantly this season, collecting only 20 points from 16 matches. Their inconsistent form makes this trip to Madrid a daunting challenge, but they possess the quality to cause an upset on their day.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti's pre-match comments emphasized the team's motivation: "We want to finish off the year with a win in front of our fans," he stated, highlighting the importance of securing a strong result before the break.
Prediction: Given the attacking firepower of the front three—Rodrygo, Mbappé, and Vinicius Junior—combined with the midfield control orchestrated by Tchouaméni and Bellingham, Real Madrid is expected to overpower the visitors. While Sevilla will put up a fight, the quality and depth of the home side, even with injuries, should be enough to secure the points.
Predicted Scoreline: Real Madrid 3 – 1 Sevilla
This match is a must-watch for all football fans, serving as the perfect conclusion to Real Madrid's 2025 calendar. The performance today will set the tone for the title race heading into the new year.
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