Real Madrid are set to visit Atletico Madrid at the Civitas Metropolitano on Wednesday in a decisive battle for a spot in the 2024-25 UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. However, the team could face a major setback with two key players in doubt for the crucial encounter.
The Champions League round of 16 will conclude this week, narrowing the competition down to just eight teams. One of the standout fixtures is the highly anticipated Madrid derby, where Real Madrid hold a narrow 2-1 advantage from the first leg.
With the slim lead, coach Carlo Ancelotti is expected to field his strongest lineup to minimize the risk of an Atletico Madrid comeback. However, his plans could be jeopardized after two important players missed Sunday’s 2-1 win over Rayo Vallecano.
Courtois and Rudiger in doubt
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and defender Antonio Rudiger are the two Real Madrid players whose availability remains uncertain for Wednesday’s showdown. Both were absent against Rayo Vallecano, raising concerns among fans.
Courtois is dealing with a slight strain in his right patellar tendon. His absence was reportedly part of a “scheduled rest” to allow him to recover fully and avoid further complications, rising his chances to be available against Atletico.
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Rudiger’s situation is more concerning. The defender missed Saturday’s training session due to flu-like symptoms and is also experiencing discomfort in one of his knees, casting serious doubt over his participation in the upcoming derby.
When asked about the players’ conditions in his post-match press conference, Ancelotti remained cautious: “Hopefully, Rudiger can recover from the flu, and Courtois as well… Courtois has a small problem that I believe he will recover from quickly for Wednesday’s match,” said the Italian coach, sounding more optimistic about the goalkeeper’s availability than Rudiger’s.
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