This Tuesday, Real Madrid visit Kairat Almaty in a historic Champions League match, as it will be the easternmost game ever played in the tournament’s history. Xabi Alonso’s side approach the fixture with several changes to the starting XI and the pressure of bouncing back after their heavy defeat in the Madrid derby.

Rotations and changes in Xabi Alonso’s lineup

With multiple absences in defense such as Dani Carvajal, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Antonio Rüdiger, Éder Militao, and Ferland Mendy, the Madrid coach has decided to introduce five changes compared to the team that faced Atlético. Notable adjustments include Raúl Asencio starting at right back, the return of David Alaba after injury, and the inclusion of Fran García on the left flank.

In midfield, Dani Ceballos gets another opportunity alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni and Arda Güler, while in attack Argentine talent Franco Mastantuono will line up with Vinícius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé, who remain Madrid’s main offensive weapons.

Real Madrid’s starting XI: Courtois; Asencio, Huijsen, Alaba, Fran García; Tchouaméni, Ceballos, Güler; Mastantuono, Vinícius, and Mbappé.

Buzz in Kazakhstan over Madrid’s visit

The arrival of Real Madrid in Almaty has sparked a true frenzy. Thousands of fans, both local and from neighboring countries, have flocked to the Central Stadium, which holds 23,000 spectators, to welcome Europe’s most decorated club.

Kairat’s supporters, dressed in yellow and chanting “¡Alga Kairat!”, are gearing up for the most important match in the club’s history. For Kazakh fans, this game means much more than three points: it’s the chance to measure themselves against one of world football’s giants.

The local team’s standout prospect is Dastan Satpáyev, just 17 years old and recently signed by Chelsea, who could be the surprise package of the night.

Madrid’s context: absences and suspensions

Captain Dani Carvajal will be unavailable after being handed a two-match UEFA suspension for his red card against Olympique de Marseille. On top of that, a muscle injury will keep him sidelined for several weeks.

Even so, Xabi Alonso’s side remain the clear favorites, though they are not taking anything for granted. “The Champions League is different. When the anthem plays, the team switches gears,” say Madrid fans who made the trip to Kazakhstan to support their team.

The match promises to be a celebration of football in Central Asia and a test for Real Madrid, who aim to confirm their status as favorites and secure three crucial points in the group stage.

Here are all the goals from the match: