Club football will finally resume later tonight when Real Madrid will lock horns with recently promoted side in Real Betis. Real Betis have been flying, they have played six games thus far and have managed to win 4 games. They currently lie 7th in the La Liga table. It is a fabulous start considering the fact that they have recently gained promotion.
The international break is also referred to as the "FIFA virus," Real Madrid have suffered in the recent past because of such international breaks. Ozil's recent performances have received criticism but his performance with Germany was exemplary, he would be looking to build on it. He is expected to make a start tonight.
There are serious problems in defense, the likes of Raphaël Varane, Ricardo Carvalho and Raul Albiol are all injured and look certain to miss this game. Raul Albiol fractured his cheekbone in training. Pepe will return tonight and Sergio Ramos will also make a start for Real Madrid in defense tonight.
Álvaro Arbeloa may not be given a start by Mourinho, the player started both the games for Spain and played every minute in both the games, he must obviously be worn-out. Lass Diarra and Sami Khedira will battle for a spot in the midfield, it would be interesting to see who gets the nod.
Benzema and Ronaldo both have injury concerns but Ronaldo trained with the squad and is expected to start this game. Benzema is still recovering and would not be risked, Higuaín looks set to start instead of Benzema.
Nuri Sahin is ready to make his debut, the player may not start the game as he has been recently cleared to play. He is expected to come off the bench and make an impact.
Real Betis on the other hand have far less injury concerns to worry about, Nelson is the only player who is injured for the away side and will most likely miss out.
Barcelona lead the table, they have a slender lead of a point over Real Madrid. Madrid will go top should they win against Betis, Barcelona will play against Racing Santander soon after the game at the Bernabéu concludes.
Hum... I don't think we'll see Sahin tonight, he's not on the "convocatoria" list, that I know of.