The Daily Star Ireland
Kairat Almaty’s first-ever Champions League group-stage appearance did not go as planned. The Kazakh club, making its debut in Europe’s premier competition, suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat to Sporting CP on matchday one at the Estádio José Alvalade. Despite the setback, the team views its participation as an opportunity to showcase Kazakh football on the continental stage.
Their path to the group stage was far from easy. Kairat had to battle through multiple qualifying rounds, defeating former Champions League participants Slovan Bratislava and Celtic along the way. At home, they remain locked in a tight title race with Astana, with just three league matches left. Recent domestic results have been positive, including victories against Zhenis (3-1), Aktobe (1-0), and Okzhetpes (1-0).
Real Madrid Looking to Avoid Complacency
Real Madrid, meanwhile, began their campaign with a narrow but important 2-1 win at the Santiago Bernabéu against Olympique de Marseille. Both goals came from the penalty spot, converted by Kylian Mbappé, as the Spanish giants struggled to break through from open play.
While the matchup against Kairat might look straightforward on paper, Los Blancos know better than to underestimate their opponents. The 2021/22 season provided a cautionary tale when Moldovan underdogs Sheriff Tiraspol shocked Madrid at the Bernabéu in one of the competition’s most memorable upsets. Manager Xabi Alonso has reminded his players of the dangers of complacency ahead of this long trip to Kazakhstan.
Domestically, Real Madrid remain strong. They beat Levante 4-1 away in La Liga before clashing with Atlético Madrid in the capital derby at the Metropolitano.
Squad Updates and Injury Concerns
Kairat face significant selection issues ahead of this fixture. First-choice goalkeeper Zarutskiy is sidelined with injury, leaving backup Temirlan Anarbekov also unavailable. Midfielder Zaria, veteran Brazilian Joao Paulo (37), and forward Elder Santana are likewise ruled out. These absences leave coach Kurban Berdyev with limited options against one of Europe’s strongest squads.
Real Madrid’s injury list has improved in recent weeks. Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga have both returned to action, boosting Alonso’s midfield options. However, Antonio Rüdiger, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Ferland Mendy remain unavailable. Dani Carvajal will also miss the match due to suspension following his red card against Marseille. Despite the long journey, Alonso is expected to travel with his strongest squad to ensure there are no slip-ups in the group stage.
Match Outlook
Kairat have been reliable scorers domestically, finding the net in each of their last 13 matches and often striking early—they have scored the opening goal in 17 of their past 23 games. Their home form has been particularly solid, with goals in 11 consecutive matches in Almaty. However, at the Champions League level, they remain without a win in 11 straight games, highlighting the gulf in experience and quality.
Real Madrid, in contrast, have been a model of consistency in Europe. With a squad packed with attacking options and a solid midfield base, they are strong favorites to claim another three points. The key for them will be maintaining focus and professionalism against a side that thrives on catching opponents off guard.
Prediction
Kairat’s determination and home advantage could make the opening stages competitive, but Real Madrid’s quality and depth should ultimately prove decisive. Expect the Spanish champions to control the game and secure a comfortable victory.
Prediction: Kairat Almaty 0 – 3 Real Madrid
