The European champions have been regularly conceding goals away from the Bernabeu and we think there could be goals at both ends in Abu Dhabi
Real Madrid face a familiar opponent on Wednesday evening in the semi-final of the Club World Cup.
Los Blancos overcame Kashima Antlers in the final of the 2016 edition of the tournament although the Japanese outfit gave them a real scare, taking the match to extra time before succumbing to a 4-2 defeat.
Santiago Solari’s side will be hoping to avoid any such nerves this week as they bid to win this competition for a third successive year.
Latest odds
The previous meeting two years ago finished 2-2 after 90 minutes and William Hill offer another draw at 11/2 (6.50). Real Madrid are priced at 1/5 (1.20) to win in 90 minutes with Kashima available at 11/1 (12.00).
Team news
Casemiro and Nacho have both been missing for six weeks, yet both could be available for Real. Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema picked up knocks in Saturday’s win over Rayo Vallecano and while the Welshman could be rested on Wednesday, Benzema should be fine.
Kashima were without striker Yuma Suzuki for their previous game in the competition against Chivas Guadalajara and he remains a doubt with a muscle problem.
Preview
Of the 13 competitive matches that Real Madrid have played away from the Bernabeu this season, they have only managed six victories.
They have also kept just four clean sheets and conceded 20 goals, which is in stark contrast to their defensive record at home in La Liga which is the best in the division.
Kashima scored three times in the previous round and found the net plenty of times on their way to lifting the Asian Champions League in November.
Whilst Suzuki may be Antlers’ top scorer domestically, he only scored one of their 18 goals in continental play so even if he is absent on Wednesday, the Japanese side will feel they can find the back of the net.
Tips and predictions
The price of 17/20 (1.85) for both teams to score, therefore, looks interesting and of course this selection comfortably paid out when the two sides met in 2016.
Both teams to score at 17/20 (1.85) for a 1pt stake with William Hill
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