Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid will face off once again in what is expected to be an exciting clash, this time in the last 16 of the Copa del Rey.
Match preview:
Following their dramatic Supercopa de Espana clash just eight days ago, both teams will be keen to assert their supremacy on Spanish soil.
Carlo Ancelotti's side won 5-3 in Riyadh, but Atletico are determined to get revenge in this long-awaited clash.
The last Supercopa de Espana match between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid was a spectacle of goals and drama.
The match was a thriller between the two strong teams, scoring six goals in 90 minutes, and went into overtime. Unfortunately for Atlético, it was an own goal and a late attack. real madrid He suffered a heartbreaking defeat.
But their hope is still alive. copa del reyDiego Simeone's side will be hoping to make amends by lifting a trophy.
Atlético Madrid are in a difficult situation, having won just two of their last six games.
They have also lost two of their three games to reach the last 16 of the Copa del Rey. However, morale was boosted by the tournament's last-32 victory over third-tier Lugos.
Additionally, Atlético are unbeaten in 25 games at the Metropolitano Stadium, winning 11 of their last 12 home matches.
real madridOn the other hand, they are in great shape with seven consecutive wins. His attacking prowess was demonstrated in the Supercopa victory over Atlético, and he has never lost in 21 games.
Ancelotti's side will be keen to continue their winning streak and defend their league title. copa del rey title.
Team news:
Atlético Madrid will be without Reinild, who is away on an away trip with Mozambique. africa cup of nations.
Additionally, long-term absentees Vitolo and Thomas Lemar continue to recover from injuries to their anterior cruciate ligament and Achilles tendon, respectively.
Pablo Barrios is also in doubt due to illness. However, key players such as Saul Niguez, Koke and Rodrigo de Paul are in good condition and are expected to play in midfield.
Memphis Depay, who missed the Supercopa game due to an adductor problem, could return from the bench.
Real Madrid, on the other hand, are likely to use the same squad that won the Supercopa trophy.
Aurelien Choameni's availability may be in doubt after he missed team training as a precautionary measure, but Ancelotti remains hopeful.
Lucas Vasquez Eder Militão, Thibaut Courtois and David Alaba are absent due to injury. If Choameni is not fit to start, Eduardo Camavinga could take his place, with Andriy Lunin in goal.
Possible lineup:
Atletico Madrid: (3-5-2)
Oblak;
Witzel, Jimenez, Hermoso.
Molina, De Paul, Koke, Saul, Reno.
morata, griezmann
Real Madrid: (4-3-1-2)
Runin;
Carvajal, Rudiger, Fernandes, Mendy.
Valverde, Camavinga, Kroos.
Bellingham;
Josel, Vinicius Jr.
prediction: Atletico Madrid 2-1 Real Madrid
In potentially close matches, Atlético Madrid have the advantage with their excellent home record. Despite their recent struggles, Atlético's resilience and thirst for revenge make them a formidable opponent.