Real Madrid returns from the international break with a two-point lead over Barcelona in the La Liga table. Madrid's form of late has been superb, but an injury to Luka Modrić could cause some issues in the midfield. This will be Carlo Ancelotti's 50th match in charge of Los Blancos, and he'd probably be happy with three points as gift.
Eibar vs. Real Madrid live stream: Time, TV schedule and how to watch La Liga online
Madrid are chasing their 14th straight win as they travel to face Eibar.
Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images
The biggest concern for Madrid ahead of the match is whether the two-week break disrupted their form. They were playing so well before players scattered to the wind for internationals that you have to wonder if things will click right away when they return. There’s a chance there could be some rust on the proverbial gears, which could give Eibar some hope.
Eibar have drawn their last three matches at home but face a massive task in trying to slow down Madrid’s attack. A win for Madrid on Saturday would be their 14th in a row this season.
Key Player: Luka Modrić‘s replacement (Real Madrid)
Whomever starts in place of the injured Croatian midfielder has some big shoes to fill. Modrić has been a big part of Madrid's success this season and key component in their midfield. Ancelotti has several good options to choose from and could go a more defensive route with the experienced Sami Khedira or the younger Asier Illarramendi, or he could choose offense by starting Isco. All three are solid players, so they'll definitely be able to soften the blow of losing Modrić.
Key Matchup: Eibar’s defense vs. Madrid attack
Eibar are not likely to stop Madrid from scoring, but if they want to have any chance of getting a result, they need to at least slow them down. Easier said than done, of course, especially when you consider the fact that Madrid have scored an insane 42 goals in league play so far. Eibar have been tough at home -- it’s a big reason why their in the mid-table -- but this game might be too much for them.
Eibar injuries and suspensions
Out: None reported. In doubt: Didac Vila (hamstring), Borja Ekiza (hamstring).
Real Madrid injuries and suspensions
Out: Luka Modrić (thigh)
Modrić will be out for a couple months as he faces surgery for a thigh injury. That leaves Ancelotti with a hole to fill in his midfield. Fortunately he has options with Khedira, Illarramendi and Isco all available for selection.
Match Date/Time: Saturday, 6:15 p.m. local, 12:15 p.m. ET
Venue: Estadio Municipal de Ipurua, Eibar, Spain
TV: beIN Sports (U.S. - English), beIN Sports en Español (U.S. - Spanish), beIN Sports (Canada), C+ Liga Multi, Canal+ Yomvi, Canal+ Liga/HD, GOL T (Spain)
Online: beIN Sports CONNECT (U.S. & Canada), GOL Stadium (Spain)
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