Madrid - Thus far, everything has gone according to plan for the new-look Real Madrid. The most expensive side in history is top of La Liga, albeit only on goal difference over Barcelona, having won their first five games comfortably.
They are also top of their Champions League group after Wednesday's 3-0 thrashing of Olympique Marseille.
In addition, all of Manuel Pellegrini's new signings are already performing well. Cristiano Ronaldo scored two more goals against Marseille, Kaka got the other goal.
So far so good.
But now comes their toughest test yet: away to third-placed Sevilla on Sunday.
Sevilla have won their last six games in all competitions, and on Tuesday confirmed their fine form with a 4-1 thrashing of Rangers in Glasgow.
One man especially determined to do well on Sunday is striker Alvaro Negredo, who was rejected by Real two years ago and joined Sevilla in August after two years on loan at Almeria.
"I am very motivated for the game," said Negredo, "not because it is against Madrid but because it is against a big team."
The burly forward added that "we are keen to show that we can keep up with Real and Barca at the top."
Sevilla are three points behind the twin giants. They will be able to count on Argentines Diego Perotti, Aldo Duscher, Lautaro Acosta and Federico Fazio, who missed the trip to Glasgow with minor injuries.
On the other hand, defender Sebastien Squillaci is doubtful after taking several heavy knocks in Ibrox Park.
Real also have their injury worries.
Cristiano Ronaldo limped off against Marseille after taking a heavy blow to the right ankle whilst winning a controversial penalty. Fernando Gago also finished the game limping.
Alvaro Arbeloa and Ruud Van Nistelrooy are still injured.
Also on Sunday, fourth-placed Mallorca are away to Sporting Gijon, whilst Athletic Bilbao go to Valladolid and Valencia make the trip to Santander.
Sunday's other games are as follows: Xerez-Malaga, Villarreal- Espanyol and Getafe-Osasuna.
Barcelona should have few problems on Saturday at home to Almeria, despite injuries to Dmytro Chygrynskiy and Thierry Henry.
Fifth-placed Deportivo Coruna are away to Tenerife, troubled Atletico Madrid are at home to Zaragoza - with coach Abel Resino in real danger.
