Real Madrid take a 2-1 lead into Wednesday’s pivotal Champions League round of 16 second leg against Atletico Madrid.
The first leg featured remarkable goals, with Rodrygo and Brahim Diaz each scoring exquisite efforts, while Julian Alvarez responded with a stunning equalizer.
Atletico appeared content with a single-goal deficit as the game drew to a close, although Real Madrid missed a golden opportunity to make it 3-1 when Kylian Mbappe’s cross failed to find Vinicius Junior.
Atletico seemed satisfied with the one-goal deficit as the game neared its end, but Real Madrid missed a golden opportunity to extend their lead when Kylian Mbappe’s cross failed to connect with Vinicius Junior.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side have a strong history in the Champions League and have often gotten the better of Atletico on the continental stage, including two victories in finals during the 2010s.
Atletico will be hoping to create some history themselves, but they come into the match after a tough 2-1 loss to Getafe, which severely dented their La Liga title hopes.
Meanwhile, Madrid secured a 2-1 win over Rayo Vallecano, closing the gap to Barcelona.
Team News:
Atletico Madrid: Clement Lenglet is a doubt, and veteran midfielder Koke will miss out again.
Cesar Azpilicueta has returned to the squad but is unlikely to feature. Atletico will likely set up similarly to the first leg, with Samuel Lino preferred on the left.
Julian Alvarez will partner Antoine Griezmann, with Robin Le Normand possibly replacing the injured Lenglet.
Real Madrid: Jude Bellingham should be fit despite a knock on Sunday, and will return after missing the first leg through suspension.
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is expected to recover from a minor knee injury.
Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius both played and scored in Madrid’s win over Rayo Vallecano.
Predicted Lineups:
Atletico Madrid (4-4-2):Oblak, Llorente, Gimenez, Le Normand, Galan, Simeone, De Paul, Barrios, Lino,Alvarez, Griezmann.
Real Madrid (4-2-3-1): Courtois,Valverde, Rudiger, Asencio, Mendy,Tchouameni, Camavinga, Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vinicius, Mbappe.
