New Delhi: The Santiago Bernabeu is set to host the Madrid Derby on Saturday night as Real Madrid take on Atletico Madrid in a high-stakes La Liga clash. Los Blancos lead the league standings by just a point, and this match offers them a chance to extend their lead. However, Carlo Ancelotti’s side are under pressure after a shocking 1-0 defeat to Espanyol last weekend.
Atletico Madrid, on the other hand, have been in excellent form, winning their last three matches in all competitions. They sit just a point behind Real Madrid and know a victory could change the course of the title race. Both sides are in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey and have big matches in Europe coming up, adding extra significance to this fixture.
Team news
Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe celebrates scoring their second goal. (Image via REUTERS/Juan Medina)
Real Madrid have been boosted by the return of Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and Eduardo Camavinga. All three missed the midweek Copa del Rey clash but are fit for selection. Lucas Vazquez is also available, adding depth to the squad. However, the hosts are still missing Antonio Rudiger, Dani Carvajal, David Alaba, and Eder Militao due to injuries, leaving their defence thin. Aurelien Tchouameni is expected to pair with Raul Asencio in the centre of defence.
Atletico Madrid are without Robin Le Normand, who is suspended, while Thomas Lemar and Rodrigo Riquelme remain doubtful. Despite this, the visitors have a strong squad, with Antoine Griezmann and Julian Alvarez likely to lead the attack. Clement Lenglet and Marcos Llorente should also return to the starting XI.
Where to watch Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid in India?
The Madrid Derby kicks off at 12:30 AM IST on Sunday. Indian viewers can watch the match live on the GXR app.
Predicted lineups
Real Madrid (4-2-3-1): Courtois; Vazquez, Tchouameni, Asencio, Fran Garcia; Valverde, Camavinga; Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vinicius; Mbappe
Atletico Madrid (4-4-2): Oblak; Llorente, Gimenez, Lenglet, Galan; De Paul, Barrios, Gallagher, Simeone; Griezmann, Alvarez
Match prediction: Real Madrid to overpower Simeone’s rigid defence
Diego Simeone. (Image via REUTERS/Isabel Infantes/File Photo)
This Madrid Derby is a crucial one for both teams, with Real Madrid looking to bounce back from last weekend’s loss. The return of Mbappe and Bellingham will provide a much-needed attacking spark for the hosts. Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid’s solid defence, which has conceded the fewest goals in La Liga this season, will be tough to break down.
Despite Atletico’s strong form, Real Madrid’s excellent home record—nine wins from ten league matches at the Bernabeu this season—gives them the edge. Mbappe, playing his first Madrid Derby, could prove decisive. Expect a tight match, but Real Madrid’s attacking quality should see them secure a 2-1 victory.
Real Madrid host Atletico Madrid in a crucial Madrid Derby, aiming to extend their lead in La Liga. Kylian Mbappe returns, while Atletico seek a rare Bernabeu win. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
