A challenging fixture awaits Real Madrid as they travel to Wanda Metropolitano to take on their city rivals, Atletico Madrid. With both the sides still unbeaten this season, this match promises to be a highly exciting affair.
Los Blancos are boosted by the return of Eduardo Camavinga but may also feel the absence of Kylian Mbappe, after the Frenchman was ruled out for the next 2-3 weeks with a muscle injury that he suffered in the match against Alaves.
Here is how Real Madrid can lineup against Atletico Madrid.
GK: Thibaut Courtois
The Belgian has been in top form this season, having kept four cleansheets in nine games. He could have added to his tally in the previous match but some good finishing and poor defending meant that he was not able to do so. The 32-year old will be eager to step on the field against Atletico and do what he does best.
Missed the last match as precaution but would easily slot into the lineup for this match. Will have to be in top form on both fronts against a competent Atletico attack.
A player tailor made for such matches. He knows how to get ugly and will have to mix his craziness with a top class performance at the back alongside Eder Militao.
CB: Éder Militão
The Brazilian was solid as a rock against Alaves and it could be seen, as the defence imploded when he was substituted. He has not been consistent with his performances so far this season but would be eager to build on the back of his last outing.
LB: Ferland Mendy
He may not be heavily involved on the attacking front but best believe he will give his heart out in defence. Another player like Rüdiger built for such matches and the Frenchman would look to put on a defensive masterclass.
The Uruguayan is expected to start on the right side of the midfield. He was substituted for the first time this season against Alaves, and had played every single minute of the season prior to that. Expect him to be a workhorse tonight and contribute to his team’s victory.
CM: Eduardo Camavinga
Although returning after a brief break, the Frenchman could start this game. During the 3-1 loss last season, it was visible that starting Luka Modric was a mistake and even though a loss, Madrid performed well when Camavinga came on – all this admitted by Carlo Ancelotti. Hopefully, the Italian does not make any mistakes and starts him instead of a rather tired 39-year-old legend.
This Frenchman in particular, has had a string of average first half performances and then switches it up in the second half. He will have a deeper role as compared to traditional number 8 obviously and would hope to keep the Atletico attack at bay.
The Englishman has proven to be a vital part and an orchestrator of this midfield. Yet again responsibility will be on the 21-year-old’s shoulder who would certainly be more than welcome to take on another challenge.
Two goals and an assist in his last three games and overall four goals and two assists – these are the stats of a player who was doubted at the start of the season but has proven most of the people wrong. Will partner up with his Brazilian counterpart in order to make life difficult for the Los Rojiblancos.
He certainly will be the danger man as this Brazilian has picked up form and looks at his best after a slow start to the season. He will not be the most liked figure at the Wanda as many racist abuses may come his way. The best option? Score and celebrate in front of those fans.
