Real Madrid is set to face Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey, following their recent 41 win over Barcelona.

Carlo Ancelotti will make changes to his first XI and is expected to stick with a 4231 formation for this game.

Andriy Lunin, Antonio Rudiger, and Nacho are among the players who will feature in defense.

Real Madrid is gearing up for a crucial clash against Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey at Wanda Metropolitano on Thursday night. The team's spirits are high after securing an impressive 41 victory over Barcelona recently.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti is likely to opt for a 4–2–3–1 formation once again and has hinted at making some alterations to his starting lineup. Players such as Joselu and Eduardo Camavinga could play from the start against Diego Simeone's side.

In terms of defense, Andriy Lunin will take charge between the sticks while Antonio Rudiger partners with Nacho. Dani Carvajal and Ferland Mendy are expected to fill in as fullbacks. Fran Garcia provides cover on Ancelotti’s bench if needed during the game.

The midfield trio of Toni Kroos, Eduardo Camavinga, and Federico Valverde will look to establish dominance over their opponents' center field. Jude Bellingham operates as number ten providing creative support upfront while Luka Modric & Dani Ceballos provide backup options offthebench when required later into the match.

Vinicius Jr., alongside Joselu leads Los Blancos’ attacking front line looking forward towards finding opportunities that can lead them onto scoring goals during this important encounter whilst Brahim Diaz & Rodrygo wait patiently hoping they get called upon later into proceedings if necessary."