On Sunday, March 22, Real Madrid will host Atletico Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu. The match is set to begin at 22:00 Kyiv time. This encounter marks an important fixture for Real Madrid as they aim to secure a significant victory before the international break.
Match Background
Real Madrid recently advanced to the Champions League quarter-finals after defeating Manchester City. In their last La Liga meeting, Atletico embarrassed Real with a score of 5-2, a result they are eager to reverse. Under the guidance of Álvaro Arbeloa, Real aims to address the shortcomings from that encounter.
Goalkeeper Changes
Both teams will be without their primary goalkeepers for this clash. Jan Oblak will be replaced by Juan Musso for Atletico, while Thibaut Courtois is sidelined, leaving Andriy Lunin to step in for Real. Lunin has had limited playing time this season but showcased his readiness against Manchester City.
League Standing and Importance
This match is crucial for Real Madrid as they look to keep pace with Barcelona in La Liga. While a win may not drastically alter their title chances, it could boost morale ahead of the upcoming El Clasico on May 10.
Head-to-Head Statistics
- Total Matches: 242
- Real Madrid Wins: 118
- Atletico Madrid Wins: 61
- Draws: 63
- Goal Difference: 399 (Real) – 307 (Atletico)
The rivalry between these two clubs is not only a staple of Spanish football but also a highlight in European competitions, with memorable matchups in Champions League finals and previous seasons’ knockout rounds.
Current Form
Real Madrid has won four of their last five matches, suffering only one defeat against Getafe. In contrast, Atletico’s record shows three wins in their last five outings. Their defeats came in the Copa del Rey semifinal and a recent Champions League match.
Injury Updates
Injuries will impact both squads:
- Real Madrid: Courtois, Militao, Rodrygo, Ceballos, Mendy
- Atletico Madrid: Oblak, Barrios, Mendoza
- Questionable: Bellingham (Real), Publil and Ruggeri (Atletico)
Projected Lineups
| Real Madrid | Atletico Madrid |
|---|---|
| Lunin | Musso |
| Trent | Molina |
| Rudiger | Jimenez |
| Huyse | Le Normand |
| F. Garcia | Ganzko |
| Valverde | Simeone |
| Chouameni | Llorente |
| Pitarch | Cordoso |
| Güler | Lookman |
| Vinicius | Alvarez |
| Mbappe | Sorloth |
Match Prediction
With an impressive run in recent matches, Real Madrid is favored to win. They have regained confidence following their advancement in the Champions League. While defensive concerns may linger, Lunin is expected to rise to the occasion and help solidify the defense.
The attacking threat from Vinicius and Mbappe, alongside the tenacity of Atletico’s trio featuring Alvarez, promises an exhilarating Madrid derby. Expect both teams to fiercely contest the match, making for a thrilling spectacle.
