Racing Santander vs. Real Madrid: Complete Preview, Start Time and Schedule

Real Madrid is looking to continue their reign of dominance over La Liga, while Racing Santander is trying to prove to everyone that they can compete against the best teams the world has to offer.

Clearly anything but a win would be a huge letdown for Real Madrid, while a draw would be an overwhelming success for Racing Santander.

Racing Santander narrowly lost to Valencia and is in danger of slipping even further down the standings with this daunting matchup. For Real Madrid, this is a crucial time for them to pick up more goals to boost their goal differential even further.

Where: El Sardinero

When: Sept. 21, 2:00 PM ET

Watch: ESPN 3

Player to Watch for Racing Santander: Adrian Gonzalez

Racing Santander needs someone to step up and be "the guy." Adrian Gonzalez showed flashes of brilliance against Valencia and they'll be looking for a similar outing to keep them in it in their matchup against Real Madrid.

Player to Watch for Real Madrid: Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo is always the player to watch for Real Madrid. He's one of the best players in the world and he sets the tone for the entire team. The team is looking to gain some momentum in La Liga, but in the Champions League as well. Expect him to put on a show against Racing Santander.

Key Matchup: Racing Santander Defense vs. Real Madrid Offense

This game has to be low-scoring for Racing Santander to have a chance. They let Roberto Soldado really break loose, and if they lose sight of Cristiano Ronaldo in the same way, he could have a monster match. The Real Madrid attack is unforgiving. To give themselves a chance, Racing Santander's back line has to hold their own and keep Real Madrid from blowing this match wide open.

What They're Saying:

Cristiano Ronaldo

"(People are envious of me) because I'm rich, handsome and a great player,"

Wow. All hail Cristiano Ronaldo. Yes he's great, but launching conspiracy theories against officials and insinuating he doesn't get protection because of his good looks and money is downright hilarious.

Ronaldo has to make sure he steps onto the pitch extra good-looking and that he puts on quite the show, in order to make these comments look less foolish.

Lautaro Acosta

"I feel good physically. The problem is solved and I'll hopefully be able to play in the next match to help the team."

With Pedro Munitis expected to be out, Acosta's return couldn't have come at a better time. Hopefully by the time the 21st rolls around, both will be healthy enough to participate, but having both of them out would be horrific for Racing Santander. Acosta coming back softens the blow of Munitis' exit. 

Score Prediction:

 Real Madrid 4, Racing Santander 1. This is a mismatch. Racing Santander isn't terrible, but after watching them against Valencia it's hard to imagine them keeping up with Real Madrid's pace.