Champions Cup | Saturday 2 August 2014 | Michigan Stadium | 22:06 (90 minutes)
Louis van Gaal’s Manchester United will take on Real Madrid in Michigan Stadium in the 11th match of the 2014 International Champions Cup. The pre-season tournament will showcase some of the best talent from the 10-time European Cup winners against a United side in full rebuild mode.
To Win (90mins)
Real Madrid 13/10
Draw 22/10
Man United 19/10
REAL MADRID
Real Madrid suffered defeat to Inter Milan in their first International Champions Cup match last Saturday in California, succumbing 3-2 on penalties to the Italian outfit after the sides were left deadlocked at 1-1 following the conclusion of 90 minutes.
Despite Saturday’s encounter with Inter representing a rather low-key outing for Carlo Ancelotti’s men, it was clear from the opening minutes that a number of Los Blancos’ stars were keen to impress the manager in the team’s opening pre-season appearance.
It seemed telling that Ancelotti opted for a 4-2-3-1 system for Saturday’s match with Inter Milan, allowing Isco the full 90 minutes to demonstrate his abilities as the creative hub of the team’s midfield.
The young Spaniard put on a bright display, linking up with Gareth Bale nicely and effectively operating between the lines for Los Blancos in attack.
His movement and trickery will cause United’s defence all kinds of problems.
Due to the disruption of the summer World Cup in Brazil, Madrid will be without several of their big stars, including Cristiano Ronaldo and new signings James Rodriguez and Toni Kroos.
MANCHESTER UNITED
Louis van Gaal has been victorious in his first two matches as Manchester United coach with wins over L.A. Galaxy and Roma.
The Red Devils have played an exciting brand of football—scoring 10 goals in 180 minutes of football on their tour of the USA.
But it is clear that Van Gaal will need to strengthen further as he builds his team around a 5-3-2 formation. The Red Devils looked very comfortable in the new formation.
There was a fluency in the play that was missing during much of last season.
Perhaps the most interesting aspect of Van Gaal’s first starting XI was that Antonio Valencia began as a wing-back on the right-hand side.
He’s played in defence before, but this new role allowed him to hug the touchline and provide much of the natural width.
It also ensured that he was always covered when making his bursting runs donw the flank. Arguably, it’s the best position for him.
There are very few players who will be adversely affected by Van Gaal’s introduction of a 5-3-2 system.
In fact, most will flourish in a formation based upon technical, passing football that brings fluidity and versatility.
Betting Verdict: MANCHESTER UNITED 19/10
Manchester United have been outstanding under Louis van Gaal, winning their first two games while Real Madrid struggled against Inter Milan. With Los Blancos missing some key players, United will look to take full advantage and are tipped for the win.
Written by Chadley Nagel for @Hollywoodbets. Follow them both on Twitter and Facebook now!
Bet on this match now at Hollywoodbets.net! Haven’t got an account? Open one here now!