Real Madrid have announced their 21-man squad for the second leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinal against Manchester City. Notably missing from the list are striker Karim Benzema and midfielder Casemiro, both sidelined due to injury concerns. Despite these absences, the return of Cristiano Ronaldo brings a much-needed boost, sparking discussion across fan platforms including Live Cricket BPL.
Benzema is still nursing a right thigh injury and was excluded as a precaution. Head coach Zinedine Zidane explained, “Karim is close to recovery, but we don’t want to take any risks.” As for Casemiro, he suffered a knock to his thigh and also has swelling in his big toe. He’s been training individually in the gym and has missed full team sessions. “Casemiro’s condition isn’t serious,” Zidane said, “but we have a full squad and we don’t want to force him into the match.”
Casemiro’s absence poses a significant challenge for Real Madrid. The Brazilian has become a critical piece in Zidane’s midfield setup, anchoring the team and maintaining balance. In games where he didn’t play, Madrid’s defensive structure often crumbled. To compensate, Zidane emphasized a collective approach, urging the whole team to contribute defensively. With midfielders like Toni Kroos, James Rodríguez, Mateo Kovačić, Luka Modrić, and Isco available, Zidane still has plenty of options to keep the engine room running smoothly.
The biggest lift for Real Madrid is undoubtedly the return of Cristiano Ronaldo, who missed three matches due to a muscle injury. He now reclaims his spot just in time for this pivotal clash. After being rested in the previous league match against Real Sociedad, Toni Kroos is also set to start. Though Benzema remains unavailable, Zidane has called up youth team forward Borja Mayoral, joining a frontline that includes Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Lucas Vázquez, and Jesé.
Zidane confirmed that Ronaldo is fully fit and ready to deliver. “Cristiano is feeling great. He’s recovered quickly and will be at 100 percent tomorrow. We need him. He’s a unique player whose stats speak for themselves.” Fans on Live Cricket BPL echoed the sentiment, anticipating a vintage Ronaldo performance under the bright lights of the Bernabéu.
Defensively, Real Madrid are well-stocked. Álvaro Arbeloa returns to the squad, joining a deep backline featuring Raphaël Varane, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Nacho, Marcelo, Dani Carvajal, and Danilo. In goal, both Keylor Navas and Kiko Casilla give Zidane ample confidence between the posts. With Ronaldo back and the squad nearly at full strength, Madrid look primed for battle—and fans tracking the story on Live Cricket BPL will be watching every second.