The story of Real Madrid's 2012/13 season will not be told in the league. After another bad loss last weeked to Granada that saw Los Blancos lose 1-0 thanks to an own goal from Cristiano Ronaldo, Madrid are under increasing pressure to focus on the Copa del Rey and Champions League.
Real Madrid vs. Sevilla: Preview and TV schedule
Sevilla will be out to continue their strong run of form by adding to Real Madrid’s growing misery in the league
Denis Doyle
This should open the door for the rest of La Liga and give teams that never would have troubled Real Madrid a chance to take points off the floundering giants. This week's potential beneficiary is Sevilla, a side that's undergone a bit of a rebirth since Unai Emery took charge in January. They'll also be boosted by the fact they've already beaten Madrid once this season back in September.
Madrid could get a boost with the potential return of Pepe from an long-term ankle injury. Then again, with more important games on the horizon, Mourinho may choose to hold him back and ensure he’s completely healthy.
Sevilla is awaiting the result of their appeal of Ivan Rakitic's red card against Rayo Vallecano last weekend.
Real Madrid injuries and suspensions
Out: Iker Casillas (hand). In doubt: Pepe (ankle), Raphael Varane (hamstring), Xabi Alonso (groin).
Sevilla injuries and suspensions
Out: Diego Perotti (thigh), Piotr Trochowski (muscle), Cicinho (undisclosed), In Doubt: Andres Palop (hamstring), Ivan Rakitic (suspension appeal)
The trio of Pepe, Varane and Alonso are all in doubt for Madrid this weekend. At this point there seems to be as good a chance of all three playing as there is of all three missing out. It will likely come down to a day of fitness test. For Sevilla, Andres Palop is expected to return from his hamstring issue.
Match Date/Time: 10 p.m. local, 4 p.m. ET
Venue: Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid, Spain
TV: beIN Sport, beIN Sport en Español (U.S.), Sky Sports 4 (U.K.)
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