This Tuesday, October 24, Real Madrid will visit Sporting Braga on the third matchday of the UEFA Champions League 2023/2024, in a match that can start to define the Spanish team's qualification for the round of 16.
Why it's important
The most successful team in Europe has won their first two matches in the tournament, and a victory in Portugal will allow them to face the return matches with confidence. The Portuguese side has shown to be a tough opponent that could cause problems for Madrid in their own home. It will be an interesting test for Carlo Ancelotti's team at an important moment in the season and before the weekend's classic against Barcelona.
Players to watch
Jude Bellingham is one of the most important players in Europe today. Key in the playmaking and also in the finishing, he is Madrid's standout man. Additionally, Vinicius Junior wants to be decisive again after the injury suffered a few weeks ago. In Braga, Bruma will seek to take advantage of the opportunities as best as possible. Also, José Fonte and Sikou Niakate will have to be careful in defending against Madrid's attack.
Current form
Real Madrid drew 1-1 against Sevilla in the Spanish League, where they share the lead with Girona. In the Champions League, they fought hard to win both matches against Union Berlin and Napoli. Meanwhile, Braga won 2-0 against Rebordosa in the Portuguese Cup last weekend. In the league, they are six points behind the leaders. In the Champions League, they defeated Union in the second matchday and lost to Napoli in the opener.
Previous encounter
This will be the first meeting in history.
How to watch
The great match can be watched on Star+ for all of South America.