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Shady
09-10-2010, 06:30 PM
Real Madrid Vs Osasuna - Preview and Prediction,
Overview:
Jose Mourinho was denied a perfect start to his managerial career at Madrid as Mallorca kept Madrid at bay a fortnight ago. Dudu Aouate, Mallorca’s keeper had a big part to play as he made several vital saves to keep his side level. As for Osasuna, Jose Antonio Camacho kicked start the season with a draw at home against Almeria.

Despite the draw, there are some positives for Mourinho. Both Benzema and Higuain did well for their national side by netting a goal each during the International week. With both these duo looking sharp and Ronaldo returning to fitness, there should not be much for Mourinho to complain about.

Jose Mourinho will welcome back Ronaldo as his fellow countryman recovered from his injury he sustained a fortnight ago. However he will be without Kaka, Gago, Albiol and Garay who are all out injured.

With Mourinho’s side not clicking well against Mallorca, it is highly likely that there will be several changes to the starting line up. Angel Di Maria and Sergio Canales are likely to be dropped to the bench and will be replaced by probably Ozil and Benzema or Khedira. On the other hand, Pepe who has yet to play a competitive game for Madrid since last December should replace Alvaro Arbeloa in defense.

Antonio Camacho believes that his side have what it takes to take all three points away from Madrid as his side have led at the Santiago Bernabau three times in the last two seasons. However, leading is one thing while winning the game is another.

With Osasuna having a poor pre-season, losing five out of their eight friendly games and winning only once, they look unconvincing against Almeria a fortnight ago. With a lack of goal scoring edge by Osasuna hitting the target only twice in the entire game against Almeria and poor communication in defense, Madrid might just have a walk in the park.

Camacho will be relying on the experience of Walter Pandiani to get him the goals. However with Pandiani at 34 this year, i doubt that he could outrun this Madrid defense BUT i have to say, Pandiani will be a threat during set pieces.

Probable Lineups:
Real Madrid : Casillas, Ramos, Carvalho, Pepe, Marcelo, Xabi Alonso, Khedira, Ozil, Ronaldo, Benzema and Higuain.
Osasuna: Ricardo, Joseto, Sergio, Nacho, Damia, Punal, Sorinao, Camunas, Juanfran, Pandiani and Aranda

Head to head:
Recent head to head suggest that Real Madrid does have the upper hand against Osasuna. In their last 10 meetings, Real Madrid have won seven, drawing two and losing only one.

Verdict:
Madrid fans must be disappoint their side did not kick start the season with a win. However, it was a tough game as they travelled to Mallorca. Back at the Santiago Bernabau, i do expect Madrid to walk away with all three points here today, especially with Osasuna being such a poor team on the road.

Ronaldo is expected to start despite just recovering from his injury as Jose Mourinho claims that his side lacks firepower up front. Should Ronaldo and Higuain click up front, Real Madrid should win this game by a few goals.

Mourinho have not lost a single home league game for over eight years now and I do not expect this record to change here today against a poor Osasuna side on the road.

Fix Odds Betting:
Real Madrid to win with Bet365 @ 1.20 as your Banker Bet
Real Madrid to keep a clean sheet @ 1.72 with Bet365

Handicap Betting:
Take Real Madrid to cover the -1.5 or 1.75 head start