They last won the UEFA Champions League in the 2015-16 edition and haven't played a competitive game since. Although the International Champions Cup 2016 is not really a competitive tournament, Real Madrid will be looking for a bright start to their preseason 2016-17 campaign.
Playing against a strong team like Paris St. Germain will definitely bring out the competitive spirit of the teams and there is no reason why the teams won't be deploying their star players in order to get an edge over the other.
The teams clash swords at the Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio on Monday.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who could have been the star attraction of the match if only he had played, is sidelined for some time now after a serious injury he suffered in the Euro 2016 final playing for Portugal against France earlier this month. Zlatan Ibrahimovic too, will be unavailable for PSG, after the Sweden star signed up for Manchester United earlier this month.
Two of the big names will be missing, but nevertheless, the quality of football in store will be no less. The likes of Edinson Cavani (PSG), Marcelo (Real Madrid), Lucas Moura (PSG) and Karim Benzema (Real Madrid) also have the potential to light up fireworks in Ohio on the night.
"It's the first match and we want to start well," said Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane, ahead of the match. "Everyone will play because they've worked really well over the last ten days. We want to give some minutes to everyone so they'll all get their chance. I don't know who is going to play the first or second half. What is certain is that we're going to play with two up top.
"I am pleased with the work we've done so far. We came here to work and we've worked really well, in some great facilities. The players have had a fantastic week and now the games are starting, so we're happy. James, Ramos and Modric won't play against PSG.
"We have to prepare well for the season and we're working hard. The Euros finished late and we're not going to take any risks. I want the players to be at 100% when they come back. We've got a big enough squad to be able to replace people. We're always going to put the best team out," the France legend added.
International Champions Cup 2016: Real Madrid vs PSG is scheduled for a 7.30 p.m. ET (5 a.m. IST, 12 a.m. BST) start on July 27.
Where to watch live
India: TV: Sony ESPN. Live streaming: Sony Liv
UK: TV: Sky Sports 1/HD, Now TV. Live streaming: Sky Go
USA: TV:ESPN 2, ESPN Deportes TV. Live streaming: Watch ESPN
Spain: TV: Antena 3. Live streaming: None
France: TV: beIN Sports 2. Live streaming: None.
