Our man in the Spanish capital Phil Kitromilides thinks the champions will continue their recent form of enjoying high-scoring first halves at home

Saturday’s match at the Bernabeu could turn out to be a fairly muted affair, with Real Madrid’s priorities lying in the cup competitions and Levante all but mathematically safe from relegation.

Los Blancos of course remain overwhelming favorites with William Hill pricing them at just 1/7 (1.14) for the victory with Levante offered at 16/1 (17.00).

While on the road Madrid have suffered some disappointing results, their form at the Bernabeu remains as strong as ever with their run of 38 matches unbeaten one of the longest anywhere in Europe. Levante are extremely unlikely to end that, although there are likely to be plenty of changes to the hosts’ starting line-up.

Yet despite this not being a game of huge significance, backing a high-scoring first half has proved very profitable in Madrid’s recent home games and over 1.5 goals in the opening 45 minutes is offered at 4/5 (1.80).

This bet has comfortably paid out in each of Madrid’s last six fixtures at the Bernabeu and with Levante conceding first half goals in each of their last six away matches, there is every chance of our selection proving to be the correct one.

For a value bet back Madrid to be ahead at 15 minutes which is available at 12/5 (3.40).

Our value bet selection for Wednesday’s Champions League clash with Galatasaray was a goal before 10 minutes which duly paid out at the healthy price of 9/4 (3.25).

Madrid have been ahead after 15 minutes in three of their last four home games making this an an excellent option for a small investment.

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Phil Kitromilides is a sports anchor working on TV in Madrid. You can also follow Phil on Twitter.