UEFA Champions League 2018-19: 5 reasons why Ajax could still win their tie at Santiago Bernabeu

Erik Ten Haag's side would believe that they can still turn this around. It won't be the upset of the century if they do it though.

#4 Real Madrid's fixtures preceding the game

You don't want to face a highly intense and vibrant Ajax side after playing 180 minutes in two days against the Blaugrana. It is tough as it gets.

Another fun factor leading up to the second leg is this one. We are all pointing out how Barcelona are walking on tightropes. They will face Lyon, Sevilla, and then Madrid twice, all away from home, in a space of 12 days. Tough, isn't it?

There can't be anyone happier than Madridistas seeing that Barcelona is going through a tough schedule which could hurt them in the league and in the cup as well.

What no one is actually noticing is that Real Madrid will have troubles too, once the Clasico is done. They are going to face Barcelona twice and then Ajax, following the El Clasico in the league. The two El Clasicos are going to be tough, it always is that way.

In the game against Barcelona in the league, if Madrid lose, they can consider a trophy gone. If they are to win that game they need to field their best team and not one with rotations. If they do that then they are up against a fresh and energetic team, raring to press the life out of Madrid, either with tired players or with less experienced players.

So what's it going to be Real Madrid? Do you prefer a risk losing against Barcelona, which of course is the biggest humiliation for you, or do you prefer risking a rotation against an Ajax team who made the regulars run for their money? Guess who's laughing now.

Edited by Debjyoti Samanta