Royal palace in MadridAnd we’ll never be royals (royals),” says Lorde. It is not ingrained in our DNA. That kind of luxury is not for us. However, the focus of this match is royal blood, at least in the name. Because the Derby is a Real, or royal in Spanish. Real Madrid presently holds the top spot in the La Liga standings as they attempt to unseat FC Barcelona as the league’s undisputed champion this year.

royal palace in Madrid

Real Madrid FYI vs. Real Sociedad

Kickoff: Saturday, September 16, 8 p.m., Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Madrid, Spain

Real Madrid Preview Information: Team Prediction and Starting XI

Transatlantic Passage: The Premier League’s Impact on American Soccer: LINK

Real Madrid is in first place in the Premier League with 12 points. Real Sociedad is in eighth place with 6 points.

Probability of a Real Madrid result on Google: 59% Draw 23% 18% Real Sociedad

Arena Bernabeu

Team News for Real Madrid

Ferland Mendy is dealing with an unidentified muscular issue, but he appears to be making progress. He could play a role in this, as could Dani Ceballos, who appears to have recovered from a hamstring problem.

Elsewhere The Upcoming Big Thing Although Arda Guler is nearing recovery from his knee injury, this game will come too soon for him. The long-term injured absentees are another factor:

Courtois, Thibaut

Thibaut Courtois (ACL) will miss the majority of the season, Vinicius Jr. (thigh) will be out until next month, and Eder Militao (also an ACL) will be done for the year.