The Real Madrid Lineup That Should Start Against Borussia Monchengladbach

Real Madrid progressing through to the knockout rounds of the Champions League is pretty much a foregone conclusion, right? Wrong.

Zinedine Zidane's side are on the brink of disaster in this year's edition of the competition, and only a win over Bundesliga outfit Borussia Monchengladbach on Wednesday night will absolutely assure they'll be dining at European football's top table after Christmas.

A draw could be enough for Los Blancos as long as Inter defeat Shakhtar Donetsk in Italy, though Zidane will no doubt be keen to ensure his side aren't relying on others come the final whistle.

Here's the starting XI Real should field for their crunch clash with Monchengladbach.

1. Goalkeeper & Defenders

Thibaut Courtois looks set to start on Wednesday / Fran Santiago/Getty Images

Thibaut Courtois (GK) - Started every one of Real's five Group B fixtures in the Champions League this season - shipping nine goals in the process - though is sure to retain his place.

Lucas Vazquez (RB) - With Dani Carvajal still sidelined through injury, the Spaniard is likely to yet again deputise in his countryman's absence.

Sergio Ramos (CB) - After missing five games through injury, Real look set to welcome back their iconic leader and his return couldn't be more timely given the circumstances.

Raphael Varane (CB) - Had what can only be described as an absolute howler against Shakhtar Donetsk last time out in the competition, and will no doubt be desperate to atone for his errors.

Ferland Mendy (LB) - The Frenchman has established himself as Real's first choice left back and hasn't missed a minute of Champions League action this season.

2. Midfielders

Modric should start in the midfield three / Fran Santiago/Getty Images

Luca Modric (CM) - Entering the twilight of his career at 35 years of age but by no means a spent force. His experience and quality could be key in such a huge match.

Toni Kroos (CM) - Played the full 90 minutes at the weekend against Sevilla but that will have no impact on his place in Wednesday's lineup. The German midfield maestro is a shoo-in for any Real Madrid starting XI.

Casemiro (CM) - The Brazilian recently returned to the first-team fold following a period of isolation due to COVID-19 guidelines, and he'll be massive in a game where Madrid need to be disciplined.

3. Forwards

Benzema will be key to Real's hopes of progression / Fran Santiago/Getty Images

Marcos Asensio (RW) - Was only afforded a second-half cameo in the weekend win over Sevilla and so should be fresh ahead of this huge European clash.

Karim Benzema (ST) - Real's top scorer and top assist maker in all competitions. Nothing more that needs saying about how influential he is on Zidane's side.

Vinicius Junior (LW) - Eden Hazard's loss is Vinicius Junior's gain. The Brazilian has already equalled his tally of Champions League appearances last season, partly down to the Belgian's continued injury problems.