Karim Benzema
Real Madrid officially kicked off its La Liga campaign on 18 August, playing home to Real Betis. Ancelotti fielded a 4–3–3 formation, while playing a style of attacking football, like that of José Mourinho's tactics. Real Madrid went on to win the match 2–1, with goals from Karim Benzema and debutante Isco, ensuring Ancelotti got off to a winning start.