TRONDHEIM: Real Madrid face Spanish opposition for the fourth successive time with a European title at stake when they take on Sevilla in the UEFA Super Cup in Norway.
Madrid defeated neighbours Atletico to win their last two Champions League finals in 2014 and this past season and also defeated Europa Leahue holders in the Super Cup two years ago.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored both goals when Real defeated Sevilla in Cardiff but injury suffered leadng Portugal to victory at Euro 2016 will keep him on the sidelines while Karim Benzema is also a major doubt.
This could mean ‘shop window’ opportunities for Isco and James Rodriguez while a possible return to Madrid action is likely for Alvaro Morata who has been bought back from Juventus after scoring 27 goals in 93 appearances for the Italian champions.
Sevilla have ‘lost’ coach Unai Emery to Paris Saint-Germain while leading scorer Kevin Gameiro has joined Atletico Madrid and midfielder Ever Banega has left for Italy and Internazionale. New coach is Jorge Sampaoli, who guided Chile to Copa America success in 2005.
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