Preseason Showdown: Real Madrid vs. AC Milan - How to Watch, Start Time, and Lineups

Real Madrid and AC Milan faced off in an electrifying preseason friendly on July 31 at Soldier Field in Chicago. The match marks the start of Real Madrid's USA preseason tour, where fans were eager to catch a glimpse of their favorite players prepping for the new season. With kick-off times varying globally, it was a night to remember for soccer enthusiasts worldwide.

Match Start Times and Broadcast Information

The game began at 7:30 p.m. local time, an accessible slot for local fans in Chicago. However, for those tuning in globally, watching the match involved synchronizing with their respective time zones. For viewers in the USA and Canada, the start time was 8:30 p.m. ET. Across the pond in the UK, night owls caught the game at 1:30 a.m. BST, whereas, in Australia, the action unfolded at a convenient 10:30 a.m. AEST. For Indian fans, the early risers tuned in at 6:00 a.m. IST to catch every moment.

In the USA, the game enjoyed extensive coverage. It was broadcast on ESPN, while live streaming options were available through ESPN+. Canadian fans accessed the game via an exclusive live stream on Fubo. Premier Sports 1 and the Premier Sports Player served UK audiences, while Australian viewers turned to Paramount+ for their streaming needs. In India, the FanCode platform provided live coverage of the clash.

Real Madrid’s Predicted Lineup

The predicted lineup for Real Madrid included some well-known stars and a few new faces. Thibaut Courtois was expected to guard the goal, ensuring a tough challenge for the opposing side. Eder Militao, often a rock in the defense, was likely to solidify Real Madrid’s defensive strategies. Luka Modric brought experience and finesse to the midfield, directing the play with his characteristic vision and skill. The new signing, Endrick, was anticipated to showcase his potential, drawing significant attention from fans and critics alike.

AC Milan’s Lineup and Strategy

AC Milan, fresh from a preseason victory against Manchester City, entered the field with high expectations. Key players such as Pierre Kalulu, Christian Pulisic, and Malick Thiaw were slated to start, giving Milan a competitive edge. Coach Paulo Fonseca's strategy involved player rotation that paid off handsomely during their previous match. It was expected that he might adopt a similar approach against Real Madrid.

Key Absences and Squad Changes

Notable absences impacted both lineups. Key Real Madrid players like Kylian Mbappe were reported to have remained in Madrid. In addition, Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, and Eder Militao were granted additional time off following their Copa America commitments. These absences provided opportunities for other squad members to step up and make their mark.

On the other hand, AC Milan had a relatively robust preseason campaign, highlighted by a 5-0 thrashing of Lumezzanee. Their victory against Manchester City proved their readiness for the upcoming season, setting high expectations for their D.C. showdown.

Expectations and Predictions

Given the high profile of both teams, the match drew many predictions that suggested a possible draw. Bookmakers like SkyBet, Sports Interaction, and Dafabet offered various odds underscoring the unpredictable nature of such preseason clashes. Each team was predicted to showcase its tactical planning and adaptability, key elements for a fruitful season ahead.

Upcoming Fixtures

The excitement does not end here. After the face-off with AC Milan, Real Madrid’s tour will next feature a match against Barcelona on August 4, ensuring that fans have more thrilling action to look forward to. AC Milan will also meet Barcelona on August 7, continuing their series of high-profile preseason encounters.

As clubs like Real Madrid and AC Milan embark on their preseason journeys, fans across the globe are treated to a preview of the skills, strategies, and star performers shaping up for another exhilarating football season. The Soldier Field match offered but a taste of the high-stakes drama and electrifying football we can anticipate in the months ahead.