Union Berlin face Real Madrid on Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabeu, where the hosts are the favourites to claim all three points. The visitors are significantly less experienced in Europe than their opponents and they will attempt to frustrate Los Blancos from the first whistle.
Real Madrid
Even with Karim Benzema departing this summer, Real Madrid have dominated La Liga and they are the only side to have won all five of their games so far. Vinicius Junior has been injured since game week three but even his absence hasn’t seemed to have impacted performance levels, as new signing, Jude Bellingham, has taken on a lot of the attacking responsibility from midfield.
The 20-year-old England star has netted five times for Madrid whilst also registering an assist, which just highlights how well he has settled into his new surroundings. Bellingham’s late runs into the box will be needed on Wednesday if Real Madrid are to break down the stubborn low block that Union Berlin will inevitably adopt.
Union Berlin
Going into the tie as the underdog can often provide sides with a safety blanket, which can actually improve performance, although that hasn’t quite worked out so far for them this season. After four Bundesliga games, Union Berlin sit in 8th after winning two and losing two, however those defeats have occurred in the lead up to the big UCL opener.
Union Berlin have played each tie so far at 100 miles per hour which can both benefit and hinder them. For example, they scored eight goals in the opening two fixtures with Kevin Behrens starring, but when they faced a strong RB Leipzig side at home, they fell apart and deservedly lost 3-0. It Is important that Urs Fischer’s side stay in the game for as long as possible, but if they concede first, they could become extremely vulnerable at the back.
Verdict?
Real Madrid are unstoppable at the moment and I cannot see Union Berlin halting their progress. The German side can hurt Madrid, but they look weak when facing sustained pressure. Carlo Ancelloti’s side will win this tie.
The final prediction is Real Madrid 3-1 Union Berlin.
