Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid face off on Saturday night in La Liga at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium. Real lead the La Liga table after 6 games, while Atletico are just a point behind them.
We could be in for an exciting match, as it is always the case in the Madrid Derby. These two sides met in pre-season in the International Champions Cup where Atleti shocked everyone with a 7-3 win but Los Blancos had won the last competitive fixture between the two sides earlier this year.
Let’s take a look at 3 key battles in the game between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid
Karim Benzema vs Stefan Savić
Karim Benzema is the man in form for Real Madrid as the experienced French striker has notched up five goals in five starts so far this season, and leads the La Liga goalscorers chart for the 2019-20 season.
The Frenchman will be up against former Manchester City and Fiorentina central defender Stefan Savić, who has had a good start to the league season so far. Savic takes no risks at the back, averaging 6.3 clearances this season, as well as an average of two tackles per game. This will be an interesting battle where Benzema could come out on top as he is in good form.
Joao Felix vs Sergio Ramos
Atletico Madrid’s summer signing Joao Felix, was brought in to replace Antoine Griezmann in the Atleti side, and he has got off to a decent start for his new club. The 19-year-old is a quick player who has good dribbling ability, which could be a worry for the Real backline, especially captain Sergio Ramos.
Diego Simeone’s men will most likely play on the break and a quick through ball or ball over the top could catch Ramos and co. off guard, which is something Felix can capitalise on.
Toni Kroos vs Saul
Toni Kroos is perhaps one of the best in the world in his position when he is on form. The German is a pass machine, who can control the tempo of the game, move the ball around swiftly, as well as create chances for his teammates.
Kroos will be up against Atletico’s Saul, who is an all-round player, contributing in attack and defence. The Spaniard’s neat passing, movement, and tackling could cause some trouble to the Real Madrid midfield especially with the trio of Kroos, Modric and Casemiro not in their best moment right now.
