Benzema to flourish against Galatasary in Ronaldo’s absence

Christiano Ronaldo hobbled off against Betis on Sunday but punters should not have anything to fear against Galatasary.

The Turks have failed to score in two matches at the Bernabeu in recent seasons – losing 3-0 on each occasion – and the 33/20 about Real Madrid winning to nil is the way forward.

Both Athletico Madrid and Barcelona continue to win in La Liga and third-placed Real have been under plenty of pressure during their domestic games.

They know that they must win but have done a fine job of late, scoring a whopping 20 goals in their last four La Liga victories.

Obviously Ronaldo has played a major part but Karim Benzema has also been in lethal form and the Frenchman is 4/1 to score first this evening.

Bet on Benzema to score first at 4/1

Benzema has five in his last four domestic games and, along with Gareth Bale and Isco, helps form part of the most feared attacking line-up in European football.

Scoring goals at home comes naturally to this Real Madrid side and they have 29 in nine games on home soil.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti has spoken about the threat posed by Galatasary, saying: “They have more balance and have quality in attack, with players like Didier Drogba. We expect a very ddifficult game because they are playing for qualification.”

The visitors appointed Roberto Mancini just one week after the 6-1 defeat to Madrid in September, and results have picked up since October.

Galatasary have lost just one Turkish Super Ligue game in their last five – to arch rivals Fenerbahce – and Drogba has scored in three of the last five games that he has started in all competitions.

Bet on Drogba to score anytime at 3/1

The Istanbul side also have the goal-threat and creativity of former Real star Wesley Sneijder to draw upon.

They need to get something out of today’s match in order to put them in a good position for their final game where they play Juventus in Turkey.

Real have added injury problems with Xabi Alonso also set to miss the game as Ancelotti is anxious not to rush him following his return from injury last month.

The hosts could also be without Sami Khedira, Raphael Varane and Fabi Coentrao through injury, whilst Luka Modric is suspended after picking up three yellow cards.

Bet on Real to win to nil at 33/20

Beware the wounded tiger though; players like Jese Rodriguez, Angel Di Maria and Alvaro Morata will be keen to stake their claim for more regular starting positions.

Galatasary’s history in Madrid must be worrying for supporters and if they show too much attacking intent then they will leave themselves vulnerable to the pace and skill of Bale and co.

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Real Madrid to win to nil 33/20