By Adenike Lawal
Real Madrid will be without two of their defensive pillars as they take on Rayo Vallecano this Sunday, with goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and defender Antonio Rüdiger ruled out.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that Courtois is sidelined with knee discomfort, while Rüdiger is battling an illness.
However, both stars are expected to recover in time for Wednesday’s crucial Champions League last-16 second-leg clash against Atletico Madrid.
Currently third in La Liga, Real Madrid trails leaders Barcelona by three points and Atletico Madrid by two.
Meanwhile, Barcelona’s match against Osasuna has been postponed following the tragic passing of a club doctor.
With key absences, Los Blancos must dig deep to stay in the title race and maintain their European ambitions.
