AEK Athens v Real Madrid: Pre-match updates and injury news for UEFA Champions League fixture

Real Madrid travel to Greece to face AEK Athens in a UEFA Champions League 2026-27 league-phase fixture at the Agia Sophia Stadium in Nea Filadelfeia on Wednesday, November 4, 2026. Both sides go into the match seeking to strengthen their positions in the competition.

The fixture gives AEK an opportunity to test themselves against one of Europe’s most successful clubs, while Real Madrid aim to maintain momentum in their European campaign. The hosts will need a disciplined showing after struggling in recent Champions League fixtures, and home advantage will be a factor for AEK. Real Madrid have carried form into both domestic and European matches this season, according to pre-match notes.

AEK will be without goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha, who is sidelined with a wrist injury. His absence could affect the hosts’ defensive stability against a Real Madrid attack led by Kylian Mbappé. AEK have conceded eight goals across two European matches this season, a defensive return that increases the importance of cover in goal and at the back.

José Mourinho’s side have multiple players unavailable for the trip to Athens. Federico Valverde is dealing with a hamstring injury, Raúl Asencio is recovering from a leg injury and Ferland Mendy is sidelined with a ligament injury. Rodrygo is expected to remain out until late December after suffering a cruciate ligament injury.

Barnabás Varga is identified as one of AEK’s key attacking options and has scored twice in the UEFA Champions League this season. The forward will need to make the most of his opportunities if the hosts are to trouble Real Madrid.

Kylian Mbappé has scored three goals in three Champions League appearances this season. His pace, movement and finishing will be central to Madrid’s attacking plans, particularly against AEK’s rearguard.

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