Real Madrid vs Almeria preview - Ancelotti wants wins all the way

Posted Tuesday, April 28, 2015 by PA

Carlo Ancelotti has set his Real Madrid side the target of winning all their remaining games as they hunt for the Primera Division title.

A run of five consecutive wins since the Clasico defeat to Barcelona sees Real just two points behind their rivals as they prepare to face Almeria at the Bernabeu on Wednesday.

Despite a late goal taking his side through to the Champions League semi-finals last week, Ancelotti insists the focus is firmly on their next domestic clash.

"We are focused on tomorrow's game even though we know we have very tough games ahead," he said at his pre-match press conference.

"Our objective in La Liga is to win all the remaining games."

He added: "I see the team well and able to compete in all the competitions we are in.

"It's a point in the season where every game is life or death. We have to prepare for this match with this thought."

Ancelotti has called 16-year-old Martin Odegaard into the squad. The Norwegian youngster has yet to appear for Real since making his winter move from Stromsgodset and is likely to sit on the bench, along with fellow youth players Mayoral and Diego Llorente.

Keylor Navas will start in goal as Iker Casillas is rested, while Jese Rodriguez is also expected to return with Ancelotti saying he will play some part.

Gareth Bale has been making good progress in his return from injury but he is unlikely to be rushed back as Ancelotti keeps an eye on the Champions League semi-final clash with Juventus.

Almeria head into the match on the back of a crucial 2-0 win over Eibar, which moved them out of the relegation zone and level on points with their opponents.

Michel Macedo, Fran Velez and Fernando Soriano are all out injured for Almeria on their visit to Madrid through injury, although Sebastian Dubarbier is available for selection after his suspension ended.

Verza scored on his return from injury and could face a struggle to be fit enough for two games in such close proximity.