Real Madrid host Levante on January 17, 2026, at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Spaniards aim to extend their four‑match winning streak and secure second place, while Levante fights for vital points to escape the relegation zone. Expect a dominant Real performance, with a likely 2‑0 or 3‑1 scoreline that could shape the rest of the La Liga season.
Match Background and Stakes
The clash pits a top‑four challenger against a club battling survival. Real Madrid sits just two points behind the league leaders and looks to solidify its challenge for the title. Levante, positioned near the bottom, needs a win to keep its relegation hopes alive.
Recent Form and Statistics
In their last five games, Real Madrid recorded four wins and one loss, averaging 2.6 goals scored and 1.6 conceded per match. Levante posted three wins, one draw, and one loss, relying on occasional numerical superiority but lacking consistency.
Head‑to‑head meetings have produced over 2.5 goals in roughly 44% of the encounters, indicating a moderate likelihood of an open game. However, Real’s overall offensive firepower suggests they will control the scoring.
Key Players and Tactical Battle
Real Madrid will continue to deploy a 4‑3‑5 system under manager Antonio Conte, focusing on high‑pressing and quick short passes. Winger Vinícius Júnior and midfielder Jude Bellingham are expected to spearhead attacks, with Vinícius using his pace on the left flank and Bellingham driving forward from the midfield.
Levante’s new manager favors an aggressive 4‑4‑2 formation, emphasizing rapid ball progression through the centre. The team’s forward line will look to exploit any defensive lapses, but frequent changes in the back line and recent goalkeeper swaps have hurt their stability.
Impact on La Liga Table
- Real Madrid: A victory extends their winning streak to five games, reinforces their hold on second place, and keeps them within striking distance of the league leaders.
- Levante: Dropping points could cement their spot in the relegation zone, increasing pressure in the remaining fixtures.
Prediction and Final Score
Considering recent form, key player availability, and tactical setups, Real Madrid is favored to win by a margin of two to three goals. The most probable outcome is a 2‑0 victory for the home side.
Projected Line‑ups
- Real Madrid (4‑3‑5): Courtois – Carvajal, Militao, Alaba, Mendy – Modrić, Luka Modrić, Bellingham – Vinícius Júnior, Benzema, Rodrygo
- Levante (4‑4‑2): Martínez – Borja, Ramírez, Ávila, Otani – Ureche, Conte, Ramírez, Kara
Final prediction: Real Madrid 2‑0 Levante.
