Veteran star expected to start ahead of returning defender vs Juventus | OneFootball

Real Madrid will look to secure a berth in the FIFA Club World Cup quarterfinals as they take on Juventus in the Round of 16.

Xabi Alonso will be blessed with more options at his disposal heading into this game, as Kylian Mbappe is poised for a return to the pitch after suffering with a major illness.

Raul Asencio, too, is back in contention after picking up a red card in the second match and subsequently serving a suspension.

However, Asencio’s return to contention won’t guarantee him a starting role in the team against Juventus.

Antonio Rudiger to start against Juventus

According to Diario AS, Antonio Rudiger looks all set to start against Juventus in the Round of 16 despite despite a slight injury scare in the previous match

Rudiger was substituted in the second half due to what the club later confirmed to be just cramps, stemming from overexertion.

Rudiger is prepared to take on Juventus this week (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

He has since returned to full training in Palm Beach and looks sharp ahead of the all-important clash against Juventus.

Xabi Alonso could stick to the three-man defence that worked wel in the final group stage game.

Rudiger’s presence is likely to provide both leadership and defensive solidity, something Real Madrid will need against the Bianconeri’s front line.

This could mean that Asencio, despite serving his suspension, might have to wait a bit longer for a starting berth.

His return will, however, be a valuable option off the bench if Madrid require fresh legs or a tactical tweak later in the game.