Real Madrid v Getafe: Judgement Day


Tonight is a crossroads for Real Madrids season. They either shake off the stinging criticism they have recieved during the last 15 days and push on. Or they succumb to another disappointing result in what is turning into a potentially fatal run for the Bernabeu outfit. The former will consolidate Manuel Pelligrinis position as manager, for the time being at least, whereas the latter would surely be the end of the 'Engineer' in the Madrid hotseat.

Whatever happens, he will be without Cristiano Ronaldo and Guti. Ronaldo still hasnt managed to shake off his ankle injury, and has also been ruled out of the crucial Champions League match in Milan midweek, so Real will be eager to prove they can cope without the man from Madeira. Guti on the other hand has been left out as punishment for his outburst at Pelligrini at half time in Alcorcon, where he made it abundantly clear where his coach could shove his decision to substitute him. It has been claimed Guti is injured, but having declared himself fully-fit yesterday, Pelligrini finally appears to be exerting what little power his president affords him. It will be interesting to see if Raúl starts.

Strangely, Getafe will have more Madrid youth players in their line-up than Madrid themselves, with Soldado, Parejo, Adrián and Miguel Torres all aiming to sink their former employers. Their manager Míchel was a crowd favourite during his time as a 'blanco', but has made it clear there will be no favours come saturday evening. The match-up will also see the coming together of the protagonists of last seasons ´Pepegate´ (see video), with Pepes victim Casquero set to be named on the Getafe subs bench. Four years ago this fixture spelt the end of Wanderley Luxumbergos reign as Real Madrid manager, will lightning strike twice over the Santiago Bernabeu?