Real Madrid are following developments in the UEFA zone World Cup qualifying campaign with close interest given that five key players could potentially be involved in a play-off to secure a final ticket for Russia 2018.
Soccer Football - 2018 World Cup Qualifications - Europe - Croatia vs Finland - Stadion Gradski vrt, Osijek, Croatia - October 6, 2017 Croatia's Luka Modric looks dejected after the match ANTONIO BRONIC (REUTERS)
The affected players are: Cristiano (Portugal), Bale (Wales), Modric, Kovacic (Croatia) and Varane (France) with the latest round of fixtures key in establishing who has a ticket to Russia and what sides will have to undergo a home and away play-off in November with a Madrid derby looming for Zidane's men just days after the second leg.
The UEFA play-off dates are scheduled with first legs taking place on and between November 9-11 with the return fixtures being played on November 12-14 (inclusive).
LaLiga Santander
| Table | PTS | W | D | L |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4Atlético | 15 | 4 | 3 | 0 |
| 5Real Madrid | 14 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| 6Betis | 13 | 4 | 1 | 2 |
| Next matches | |
|---|---|
| Getafe - Real Madrid | S-14/10 16:15 |
| Real Madrid - Eibar | D-22/10 20:45 |
| Girona - Real Madrid | D-29/10 17:00 |
*Update at 8 de octubre de 2017
