The Madrid derby is set to take centre stage this Sunday as Real Madrid will welcome Atletico Madrid in a top-of-the-table clash in La Liga.
With Atletico Madrid and Barcelona nipping at their heels, league leaders Real Madrid would be looking for nothing but a win to keep hold of their narrow lead in the title race.
In their previous league game, Los Blancos suffered a shock 1-0 defeat against Espanyol, which changed the course of the title race, allowing their rivals Atletico to close the gap to one point. Meanwhile, Barcelona reduced the difference to four points.
A draw or a defeat is the last thing Real Madrid would be hoping for in the derby, as it would once again blow the league wide open. Although Carlo Ancelotti’s men have reigned supreme in recent derbies, they face a tough challenge against a strong and an-inform Atletico side, who have lost only one out of their last 21 games this season.
Los Rojiblancos also pulled off a dramatic last gasp draw against Real Madrid in the reverse fixture earlier this season. However, Real will be feeling confident heading into Sunday’s blockbuster clash, thanks to their thrilling 3-2 win against Leganes in the Copa del Rey quarter-final, achieved by a second-string side.
Real Madrid Team News
Although Real Madrid have significant absentees, they will be boosted by the availability of star names, including Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and Eduardo Camavinga. The trio were absent for the game against Leganes.
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David Alaba is also available after spending more than a year on the sidelines with a knee issue, but his integration into the lineup could be delayed.
Predicted Real Madrid lineup vs Atletico Madrid ( 4-3-3)
Goalkeeper
Thibaut Courtois should return to the Real Madrid lineup after being rested for the Copa del Rey clash against Leganes.
Defence
Aurelien Tchouameni is expected to move into the make-shift centre-back role, something he has excelled at this season. Raul Asencio is expected to retain his place as the other centre-half following his impressive consistency.
Ferland Mendy will continue as the left-back, and Lucas Vazquez should make it to the Real Madrid lineup as the right-back after regaining his fitness.
Midfield
Real Madrid’s midfield will be boosted by the return of Camavinga and Bellingham, who will make their way into the starting XI. Meanwhile, Federico Valverde is also expected to move into the centre of the park after featuring as a makeshift right-back against Leganes.
Attack
Up front will be the fearsome trident Rodrygo, Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe, who have to be at the top of their game to get the better of their rivals who are strong defensively.
