3 A.M. Match: Real Madrid’s Destiny on the Line, Ancelotti’s Job at Risk, and Mbappé’s Absence Looms

In the early hours of April 21, Real Madrid will face Athletic Bilbao in a crucial La Liga clash that could determine not only their title aspirations but also the future of their head coach Carlo Ancelotti. The match, set to kick off at 3 A.M. Beijing time, is a must-win for the Galácticos, who are desperate for revenge after a 2-1 defeat in the first leg of this season’s encounter. With the stakes higher than ever, the clash at the Santiago Bernabéu will be a pivotal moment in Real Madrid’s season.

As things stand, Real Madrid is in second place on the La Liga standings, with 66 points from 31 matches, trailing Barcelona by 7 points. A loss here would not only leave them further behind their fierce rivals but also make their hopes of retaining the title all but impossible. The title race could be effectively over, and the loss would represent a double blow for Real Madrid, as they would also face the possibility of back-to-back defeats to Athletic Bilbao. The last time Real Madrid was swept aside by the Basque club in La Liga was back in the 2004-05 season, where they suffered a 1-2 defeat away and a 0-2 loss at home, a historic embarrassment that fans are hoping to avoid this time around.

Ancelotti Under Intense Scrutiny: A Loss Could Mean the End

For Carlo Ancelotti, the pressure has never been more intense. After a disastrous exit from the Champions League and with La Liga slipping out of their grasp, Ancelotti’s future at the helm is now hanging by a thread. The Italian tactician has been a legendary figure in Real Madrid’s history, winning a remarkable 15 titles, including a Champions League and multiple domestic trophies. However, at Real Madrid, titles are everything, and failure to secure another La Liga and Champions League crown in a single season is often seen as a failure.

According to Marca, tonight’s match has been dubbed a “La Liga championship trial” for Ancelotti. Should Real Madrid fall to Athletic Bilbao, it would signal a near-impossible task for the club to chase down Barcelona, and that would likely be the final straw for the club’s hierarchy. Relevo reported that Real Madrid would act decisively if the result turns into a “disastrous outcome,” potentially leading to Ancelotti’s dismissal. While it’s clear that Ancelotti is beloved by the fans and players for his achievements and approach, Real Madrid’s standards leave little room for such a major setback.

In such a case, the club might opt for a temporary solution, bringing in an interim manager for the upcoming Copa del Rey final, where Real Madrid will face Barcelona in what promises to be another high-stakes match. Ancelotti, despite his legacy, could be forced out in favor of someone who can deliver immediate success and hope for a strong finish to the season.

Mbappé’s Absence: The Tactical Shift

One of the key challenges for Ancelotti in this match is the absence of Kylian Mbappé, who will miss the game due to a one-match suspension. The French forward has been pivotal in Real Madrid’s attack, but with him unavailable, Ancelotti will have to rely on a different tactical setup to overcome Athletic Bilbao.

The most likely scenario is that Jude Bellingham will take on the role of a false 9, a position that the English superstar has flourished in this season. This move will see Bellingham drop deeper into the central role, where he can link up with Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo and pull defenders out of position. Bellingham has shown that he’s more than capable of driving forward and getting on the scoresheet, so the shift in his role could open up space for other attacking players to exploit.

To solidify the team’s defensive shape, Ancelotti is expected to deploy Federico Valverde as a makeshift right-back. This decision is an attempt to bolster the team’s defense against Athletic Bilbao’s dangerous left flank, where Nico Williams, despite being absent due to injury, has often been a key threat. Valverde will need to balance his defensive duties while also pushing forward when possible, using his athleticism to cover the ground and support the team in transitions.

The tactical reshuffle will require all players to adapt quickly, with Luka Modrić and Aurélien Tchouaméni tasked with dictating the tempo in midfield. With Mbappé out, Bellingham’s ability to score and create chances will be more crucial than ever.

Athletic Bilbao’s Form: A Tough Test for Real Madrid

Athletic Bilbao, under the guidance of manager Ernesto Valverde, has been solid this season, occupying fourth place in La Liga with 57 points from 31 matches. The Basque club has been consistently competitive, and their win over Real Madrid earlier in the season will give them confidence heading into this match. While they may not be in the title race, Bilbao is well-positioned to secure a Champions League qualification spot, and they will be determined to put in a strong performance against one of Spain’s giants.

With Nico Williams sidelined, the attacking duties will fall to Gorka Guruzeta, Oihan Sancet, and Iker Muniain, who will aim to exploit any defensive frailties in Real Madrid’s backline. The team will look to counter-attack and use their physicality to stifle Real Madrid’s possession-based game. If they can break quickly, they have the players capable of causing damage, particularly through Muniain, whose creativity and vision could unlock the defense.

Bilbao’s defense, led by Yeray Álvarez and Íñigo Martínez, will need to stand firm against Bellingham, Vinícius, and Rodrygo. The key for Bilbao will be to remain compact, avoid giving away too much space in wide areas, and press high when the opportunity arises.

Key Players to Watch

• Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid): With Mbappé absent, the responsibility to lead Real Madrid’s attack falls squarely on Bellingham’s shoulders. His versatility and ability to score goals make him a significant threat.

• Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid): The Brazilian winger has been in outstanding form this season and will be key in stretching Bilbao’s defense.

• Gorka Guruzeta (Athletic Bilbao): The Bilbao striker will look to capitalize on Real Madrid’s defensive weaknesses and convert any chances that come his way.

• Iker Muniain (Athletic Bilbao): The Bilbao captain is their creative spark, and his ability to provide assists or score crucial goals will be key for the Basques.

Real Madrid’s Last Stand: A Win is Essential

With Barcelona breathing down their necks in the title race, Real Madrid cannot afford another slip-up. The upcoming clash against Athletic Bilbao is a destiny-defining match, and a loss would likely put the La Liga title out of reach. More than just a title race, the result could determine the future of Carlo Ancelotti, with his job potentially on the line if the club suffers another setback. For Real Madrid, this match is nothing short of a crucial battle to maintain their place among the top clubs in Spain and Europe.

In the world of Real Madrid, the pressure to win is always at its peak, and for the players, it’s time to step up and show that they are capable of bouncing back when the stakes are highest. If they are to remain in the hunt for the La Liga title, a victory over Athletic Bilbao is non-negotiable.