FC Kairat Almaty vs Real Madrid CF: Official Lineup, Key Absences, and What to Expect in Champions League Battle

The UEFA Champions League returns with an exciting clash as FC Kairat Almaty vs Real Madrid CF takes center stage in the second round of the group stage. The Spanish giants, led by manager Xabi Alonso, travel to Kazakhstan to face Kairat at the Pavlodar Central Stadium. With several first-team players missing due to injury, all eyes are on how Madrid will adjust and which young stars will step up in this highly anticipated encounter.

FC Kairat Almaty vs Real Madrid CF Match Overview

Real Madrid enters the match with confidence but also caution, as Champions League away fixtures often bring surprises. Kairat, on their home turf, will aim to challenge one of Europe’s most successful clubs, while Madrid seeks to collect another vital three points.

What makes this fixture particularly interesting is the mix of established stars and emerging talents in the Real Madrid lineup. The absences of defensive leaders and experienced players open the door for younger names to shine on the European stage.

Key Real Madrid Players Missing Against Kairat

The squad traveling to Kazakhstan is notably weakened by injuries. The following players are confirmed absentees:

• Éder Militão – injured in the Madrid derby against Atlético.

• Antonio Rüdiger – ruled out due to physical concerns.

• Dani Carvajal – sidelined with fitness issues.

• Ferland Mendy – unavailable for selection.

• Trent Alexander-Arnold – also missing from the squad list.

With so many defenders out, Real Madrid’s backline will face a stern test against FC Kairat Almaty, especially if the hosts look to exploit defensive gaps.

Real Madrid Starting XI Against Kairat

Manager Xabi Alonso revealed his chosen lineup for the clash. The team sheet highlights a combination of experience and youth, with several exciting attacking options included.

Substitutes Bench

Real Madrid also boasts strong depth from the bench, featuring a mix of rising stars and established names:

• Andriy Lunin

• Javi Navarro

• Jude Bellingham

• Eduardo Camavinga

• Fede Valverde

• Endrick

• Rodrygo

• Gonzalo García

• Álvaro Carreras

• Brahim Díaz

• David Jiménez

What Fans Can Expect from the Match

The attacking trio of Vinícius Júnior, Kylian Mbappé, and Franco Mastantuono will be the focal point of Real Madrid’s offensive power. Their pace and creativity are expected to put constant pressure on Kairat’s defense. Meanwhile, the midfield, led by Tchouaméni and supported by Dani Ceballos and Arda Güler, will aim to dominate possession and control the rhythm of the game.

The main challenge for Madrid will be in defense. Without key figures like Militão and Rüdiger, the backline of Alaba, Huissen, and Asensio will need to remain disciplined to avoid conceding early. Fans of FC Kairat Almaty will see this as an opportunity to test Madrid’s weakened defensive structure and perhaps push for a historic result.

Rising Talents to Watch

This Champions League clash also provides a stage for some of Madrid’s young stars to impress:

• Arda Güler – the Turkish wonderkid looking to showcase his creativity in midfield.

• Franco Mastantuono – a new attacking option bringing freshness to the frontline.

• Endrick – likely to feature from the bench, offering flair and energy in the latter stages of the match.

Their performances could prove crucial not only for this game but for Madrid’s long-term plans in Europe.

The Stakes in the Champions League Group Stage

For Real Madrid, three points are vital to strengthen their position in the group and avoid unnecessary pressure in later rounds. For FC Kairat Almaty, this is more than just a football match—it is an opportunity to make a statement against one of the world’s biggest clubs.

With passionate home support and the pressure of facing Europe’s elite, Kairat will aim to deliver a memorable performance. Real Madrid, on the other hand, knows that no away trip in the Champions League can be taken lightly.

This encounter promises intensity, drama, and the potential for surprises, making it one of the standout fixtures of this round.