The Spanish capital will be the focus of European soccer on Wednesday as Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid meet in the second leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium.
Atlético Madrid, trailing 2-1 from the first leg, faces a significant challenge in overcoming their city rivals. This match promises to be an electrifying encounter, filled with high stakes and the intense rivalry that defines the Madrid derby.
The winner of this crucial match will progress to the quarter-finals of the Champions League, where a match against Arsenal awaits—unless PSV Eindhoven can somehow overturn their massive 7-1 first-leg defeat.
Atlético Madrid’s challenge and team news
Atlético Madrid faces a difficult task in overturning a one-goal deficit against their rivals. Their chances, however, are significantly improved by the return of captain Koke from injury.
Simeone is expected to field his strongest possible team, utilizing his customary 4-4-2 formation which is capable of transforming into a 5-4-1 depending on the flow of the game. Atlético’s overall success is highly dependent on the ability of their key players to perform at the highest level. Their home advantage could be a significant factor in influencing the game’s outcome.
Real Madrid’s team news and key absences
Real Madrid will be without several key players through injury, including Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, Dani Ceballos, and Jesús Vallejo. Kylian Mbappé, though participating in training, is managing a minor ankle issue.
However, the return of Jude Bellingham from suspension will be a significant boost for Ancelotti. Real Madrid will be prioritizing their team’s ability to achieve success within this critical Champions League tie. The return of Bellingham will be a significant help in this respect.
Predicted lineups for Real Madrid vs. Atlético Madrid
Atlético de Madrid: Oblak; Llorente, Giménez, Lenglet, Reinildo; Giuliano, De Paul, Barrios, Gallagher; Griezmann, Álvarez.
Real Madrid: Courtois; Valverde, Asencio, Rüdiger, Mendy; Tchouaméni, Modric, Bellingham; Vinicius, Mbappé, Rodrygo.
