Vinícius returns against a La Liga newcomer ready for the season: Deportivo vs Real Madrid prediction
The clash between Deportivo and Real Madrid is set for August 12, 2026, as part of the traditional Teresa Herrera Trophy match. For the hosts, this is the final test before making their long-awaited return to La Liga after an eight-year absence, while José Mourinho’s side is only beginning to assemble its optimal lineup after holidays and injuries.
Deportivo: physical readiness is their key weapon
Deportivo have already played six friendlies this summer, remaining unbeaten with three wins and three draws, conceding just three goals. Notable results include a 1-0 victory over Genoa and a 1-1 draw with Fiorentina, with the team spending most of preseason fielding their main squad.
By the final warm-up, David Mella had recovered, while new signing Angeliño already made his club debut. The biggest boost, though, is Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who netted 14 goals for Marseille last season. However, Adrià Altimira and Yeremay Hernández are still not fully fit.
Real Madrid: stars are returning, but form is still far from peak
Madrid’s preseason has mostly featured experimental lineups due to injuries and the late return of players after the World Cup. Now things are gradually improving: Vinícius and Antonio Rüdiger could start for the first time, and the return of Dean Huijsen should restore a more familiar defensive line.
Marc Cucurella, Kylian Mbappé, and Ibrahima Konaté have joined the squad but are likely to get minutes only after the break. Jude Bellingham and Aurélien Tchouaméni are still unavailable, while Éder Militão, Raúl Asencio, Rodrygo, and Ferland Mendy remain sidelined with injuries.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Deportivo are unbeaten in all six preseason matches: three wins and three draws.
- The hosts have conceded only three goals during their entire preparation.
- Five of Deportivo’s nine preseason goals have come after the 70th minute.
Madrid’s class should outweigh the hosts’ readiness: Deportivo vs Real Madrid prediction
Deportivo are much closer to peak physical condition and can maintain a high tempo until the final whistle. The hosts also tend not to surrender the initiative completely, which could pose some problems for Madrid, but at the same time will leave space for quick counterattacks.
Real are still far from their best shape but are gradually bringing back their key players and enjoy a clear edge in individual quality. The return of Vinícius should sharpen their attack, so even in a tough scenario, Madrid look capable of grinding out a win.
