Preview and Prediction
Derby of the capital is on schedule this weekend after both sides have secured a place in the round of 16 of UEFA Champions League. Zidane’s men seem to be able to take control of the situation well by completing one challenge at a time without a flaw. This entertaining clash will be another one to deal with as Atletico is currently the leader of the standings with 26 points, or six points higher than Los Blancos plus one extra game on hand.
Both teams’ previous games
Real Madrid’s critical stage in the Champions League was over after thumping Gladbach 2-0. Karim Benzema was the man of the match as he netted a brace. They do not only progress but also seal the top of the table in the group following Inter Milan’s failure to secure a win.
Meanwhile, Joao Felix and Co clinched their second win at the group stage after winning over RB Salzburg 2-0 in the midweek. Mario Hermoso and Yannick Carrasco bagged their winning goals.
Possible tactics
Zinedine Zidane seems to be more settled with 4-3-3 formation by deploying Benzema accompanied by Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo on both wings. The key figures on the sideline such as Dani Carvajal and Federico Valverde can be covered by Lucas Vasquez and Casemiro.
His counterpart, Diego Simeone, might employ 3-4-2-1 with the transition to 3-1-4-2, which he opts for recently. The absence of Jose Gimenez and Diego Costa can be easily filled with Mario Hermoso, while at the front, Luis Suarez is the targetman supported by the Portuguese youngster Joao Felix and Angel Correa behind the Uruguayan international. Kieran Trippier and Renan Lodi will be operating wide as the wing back as well as winger,
Players to watch
In Madrid, their top performer is still the Frenchman Karim Benzema, who has netted four goals and provided three assists in La Liga this season. Another key man to watch is the Brasilian youngster Rodrygo who also has made three assists so far.
Los Rojiblancos rely on Joao Felix and Luis Suarez as the main scorer this season. Both have notched ten goals and made three assists combined in La Liga. Another notable name to watch is the English winger, Kieran Trippier who has provided three assists.
Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid Prediction
In this derby, the home side is still considered as favourite. Zidane’s men’s better record against Koke and Co is certainly motivating them to keep their positive record for the reigning Champions. However, Diego Simeone’s men are now the current leader on the standings, which could be their momentum to win La Liga again since 2014. If Joao Felix and Luis Suarez plus Marcos Llorente are in their peak form, they should have a chance to pick up at least three points. However, both are more likely sharing spoils.
Betting Odds
The clash is meant to be considerably tight. Sergio Ramos and Co are projected to win at 17/11, whereas Atletico’s win market is at 11/5. The odds for the draw result are at 40/17.
